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Post-Surgery or Injury? How Massage and Reflexology Aid Recovery

Writer's picture: Harriet BerryHarriet Berry

Recovering from surgery or an injury can be a long and challenging process, especially as we age.


Stiffness, swelling, reduced mobility, and lingering discomfort are common concerns that can slow down healing.


While medical treatments and physiotherapy play essential roles, complementary therapies like remedial massage and reflexology can significantly enhance recovery by reducing pain, improving circulation, and restoring movement.


Massage and Reflexology can improve your recovery from injury and surgery
Massage and Reflexology can improve your recovery from injury and surgery

How Massage Supports Healing After Surgery or Injury


1. Reduces Scar Tissue and Improves Flexibility

After surgery or an injury, the body forms scar tissue to repair damaged areas.


While this is a natural healing process, excess scar tissue can lead to stiffness and restricted movement.


Gentle remedial massage techniques help break down adhesions, improve tissue elasticity, and restore range of motion. 


This is particularly helpful for knee replacements, hip surgeries, and shoulder injuries.


2. Enhances Circulation for Faster Healing

Massage stimulates blood flow, bringing oxygen and nutrients to healing tissues while helping to remove waste products.


Better circulation speeds up recovery, reduces swelling, and minimizes post-surgical bruising. 


It can also support healing after fractures, sprains, and tendon injuries.


3. Eases Pain Without Relying on Medication

Pain management is a major concern after surgery or injury.


While painkillers can help, they often come with side effects.


Massage therapy naturally releases endorphins, the body’s pain-relieving hormones, while reducing muscle tension and nerve irritation. 


Many clients report feeling less discomfort and needing fewer pain medications after incorporating massage into their recovery plan.


4. Supports Lymphatic Drainage to Reduce Swelling

Swelling is common after surgery, especially after joint replacements or procedures involving the lymph nodes.


Manual lymphatic drainage massage helps clear excess fluid, reducing puffiness and discomfort. 


This can be particularly beneficial for post-mastectomy recovery, knee replacements, and ankle sprains.


How Reflexology Aids Recovery


Reflexology is a targeted therapy that works by stimulating specific points on the feet, hands, or ears that correspond to different organs and systems in the body.


Here’s how it can support recovery:


1. Promotes Relaxation and Lowers Stress

Surgery and injury put stress on the body and mind.


Reflexology helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system (the "rest and repair" mode), reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and creating the ideal conditions for healing.


2. Encourages Circulation and Lymphatic Flow

Just like massage, reflexology improves blood circulation and helps remove toxins, ensuring your body has the nutrients it needs for recovery.


This is especially beneficial for those who may have mobility restrictions during healing.


3. Aids Digestion and Bowel Health

Many people experience constipation after surgery due to anesthesia, pain medications, or reduced movement.


Reflexology helps stimulate the digestive system, encouraging bowel regularity and easing bloating.


When to Start Massage or Reflexology After Surgery


It’s important to follow your doctor’s advice before beginning any complementary therapy post-surgery.


In most cases, gentle massage and reflexology can be introduced a few weeks after surgery, focusing on areas away from incisions or surgical sites.


Always work with a qualified therapist experienced in post-surgical care to ensure the safest and most effective approach.


Supporting Your Recovery Journey


Whether you’re healing from a hip replacement, a knee surgery, or recovering from a fall, remedial massage and reflexology can play a crucial role in getting you back to feeling your best.


These therapies offer a gentle, natural way to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall wellbeing, helping you return to the activities you love sooner.


If you're preparing for surgery or recovering from surgery or injury and wondering if massage or reflexology could help, feel free to reach out—I’d be happy to discuss a tailored approach for your recovery.

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