IS MASSAGE AFTER A KNEE REPLACEMENT A GOOD IDEA ?
YES!
Massage therapy can be a beneficial component of your recovery process following knee surgery. It offers several advantages that can aid in healing and improve overall outcomes.
- Benefits of Post-Operative Massage:
- Pain Reduction: Massage can alleviate post-surgical pain by soothing tissue guarding reactions and promoting relaxation.
- Swelling Reduction: Techniques like lymphatic drainage massage are effective in decreasing swelling and inflammation by enhancing lymphatic flow.
- Improved Mobility: Regular massage can increase joint ease and range of motion, supporting physical therapy goals.
- Scar Tissue Management: Massage can make scar tissue more pliable and functional by realigning it in the direction of desired stretch.
When to Begin Massage: It’s crucial to ensure that your surgical incision is fully healed before starting massage therapy, typically around 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery. Always consult with your surgeon or physical therapist to determine the appropriate timing and to develop a massage plan tailored to your specific needs.
Types of Massage Techniques:
- Lymphatic Drainage Massage: Focuses on reducing swelling by encouraging the movement of lymph fluids.
- Deep Tissue Massage: Targets deeper muscle layers to relieve tension and improve blood flow.
- Scar Tissue Massage: Involves gentle manipulation of the scar area to enhance tissue flexibility and reduce adhesions.
Incorporating massage therapy into your post-operative care can complement other rehabilitation efforts, such as physical therapy, leading to a more comprehensive and effective recovery. We have 3 RMT’s that you can trust with your knee. You will be amazed at how much looser your knee feels after a massage. And your scar will look better also !
