What Is Post-operative Massage?
Recovering from surgery can involve more than healing at the incision site. Muscle tension, stiffness, swelling and changes in how you move can all affect your comfort as you return to everyday activities.
At Balance Physiotherapy, our registered massage therapists (RMTs) provide massage therapy tailored to your procedure and stage of recovery. Post-operative massage, also called post-surgical massage, may include manual lymphatic drainage and scar massage, depending on your surgery and how you are healing.
Our Kitsilano clinic also offers physiotherapy to support your mobility, strength and rehabilitation.
When Can You Get a Massage After Surgery?
The right time to start post-operative massage depends on your surgery, healing progress and your medical instructions. Always get clearance from your surgeon or treating healthcare professional before beginning treatment.
Early Recovery After Surgery
In early recovery, protecting the surgical site comes first. Once you are cleared, gentle techniques that avoid pressure on healing areas may be suitable.
Massage Once the Incision Has Healed
Scar massage usually begins once the incision is fully closed and healed. The timing varies by procedure, so your RMT will discuss your recovery and any restrictions before recommending scar treatment.
Massage During Later Recovery
As you recover, changes in posture and movement can lead to tension and stiffness. Massage can help to ease this.
There is no universal timeline for post-operative massage. Your surgeon’s guidance and your healing progress mainly determine this.
How Can Post-Operative Massage Help With Recovery?
Post-operative massage focuses on the physical changes that can come with recovery. Depending on your needs, treatment may help with swelling, scar tissue, muscle tension and discomfort.
Managing Swelling
Manual lymphatic drainage is a specialized technique that may help manage post-surgical swelling when clinically appropriate.
Supporting Scar Tissue Mobility
Scar massage helps keep healed scar tissue and surrounding skin soft and mobile. Your RMT can advise when treatment is suitable and show you techniques for home care.
Easing Muscle Tension and Stiffness
Moving differently after surgery can place strain on other muscles. For example, using crutches may contribute to shoulder and upper back tension. Massage can help address muscle tension where appropriate.
Supporting Comfort During Recovery
Massage can promote relaxation and help ease muscle tension as you gradually return to your usual activities.
Lymphatic Drainage Massage After Surgery
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) uses gentle, rhythmic movements to encourage lymphatic fluid movement. Unlike conventional massage, it uses light pressure rather than deep muscle work.
What Types of Surgery Can Post-Operative Massage Support?
Post-operative massage can be suitable after several types of surgery, depending on your procedure, healing progress and medical guidance.
Orthopedic Surgery
After knee or hip replacement, ACL repair, rotator cuff surgery or spinal surgery, such as a discectomy, massage may help with tension in the surrounding muscles and complement your rehabilitation.
Breast Surgery
Recovery following breast reconstruction, reduction, augmentation, mastectomy or lumpectomy can involve muscle tension, discomfort and scar-related concerns. Treatment depends on your healing progress and any medical restrictions.
Abdominal Surgery and C-Sections
Following abdominal surgery or a C-section, scar massage may help improve scar mobility once the incision has healed sufficiently and treatment is appropriate.
Cosmetic Surgery
Following procedures such as liposuction or a tummy tuck, lymphatic drainage massage may help manage post-surgical swelling.
Post-Operative Massage Pricing and Insurance
Balance Physiotherapy offers registered massage therapy and direct billing to most extended health plans. Coverage varies by policy, so check your benefits for reimbursement limits and referral requirements.
- Initial Massage (60 minutes): $145.00
- Follow-Up Massage (60 minutes): $145.00
- Follow-Up Massage (90 minutes): $215.00
Types of Registered Massage Therapy We Offer
At Balance Physiotherapy in Vancouver, our Registered Massage Therapists offer a range of massage treatments tailored to your symptoms, needs and treatment goals. Whether you’re looking for support with pain and muscle tension, recovery after an injury or surgery, pregnancy-related discomfort, or relaxation, your therapist will recommend an appropriate approach based on your assessment.
Our Registered Massage Therapy Services:
Relaxation Massage
ICBC Massage Therapy
Lymphatic Drainage Massage
FAQs
How soon after surgery can I get a massage?
Timing depends on your procedure and healing progress. Get medical clearance before starting treatment, particularly while the surgical site is still healing.
Is post-operative massage safe?
Yes, when it is matched to your procedure and recovery stage and your surgeon has cleared you. Your RMT will review your surgery, medications and restrictions before treatment and avoid any areas that are not ready.
How many post-operative massage sessions will I need?
That depends on your procedure, symptoms, recovery progress and treatment goals. Your RMT can recommend an approach that suits you.
Book Your Post-Operative Massage in Vancouver, BC
Looking for post-operative massage in Vancouver? Balance Physiotherapy’s RMTs offer massage therapy matched to your procedure and stage of recovery.
