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Recovering from Surgery? Massage Therapy May Help You Heal Faster

  • Writer: Lauren Walker
    Lauren Walker
  • 2 days ago
  • 3 min read

Surgery is often just the first step in a long recovery journey. Whether it’s a joint replacement, a back procedure, or a soft-tissue repair, many patients face weeks—or even months—of pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. But what if there were a safe, natural way to ease discomfort and speed up the healing process?


According to the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), there is. The AMTA cites multiple studies showing that post-surgical massage therapy can reduce pain, improve range of motion, and shorten recovery time for many patients.

Let’s explore how and why massage therapy can be a valuable part of your post-operative care plan.


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What the Research Says

The AMTA references a growing body of evidence that supports massage as an effective complement to traditional post-operative rehabilitation. Specifically, studies show that massage therapy after surgery can:

  • ✅ Lower pain levels

  • ✅ Decrease swelling and inflammation

  • ✅ Improve circulation

  • ✅ Prevent scar tissue buildup

  • ✅ Restore flexibility and mobility

  • ✅ Reduce stress and anxiety during recovery

Whether it's orthopedic surgery (like knee or hip replacements), cosmetic procedures, or abdominal surgeries, massage therapy has shown measurable benefits in recovery outcomes.


Why Massage Therapy Works After Surgery

Surgical recovery is not just about healing incisions—it’s about restoring comfort, function, and quality of life. Here’s how massage therapy helps:


1. Reduces Pain and Inflammation

Massage stimulates blood and lymphatic flow, helping remove inflammatory waste products and promoting the body’s natural healing response. This helps lower pain levels without the need for additional medication.


2. Improves Circulation

Good circulation is crucial after surgery. Massage increases blood flow to healing tissues, delivering oxygen and nutrients that are vital for tissue repair.


3. Prevents Scar Tissue and Adhesions

Scar tissue can restrict movement and cause pain if left unmanaged. Gentle post-surgical massage techniques can help break down adhesions and improve soft tissue flexibility.


4. Enhances Mobility and Function

Massage therapy can help release muscle tightness, reduce swelling, and improve range of motion—especially important in joint surgeries or procedures that limit movement during healing.


5. Supports Mental and Emotional Recovery

Surgery can be traumatic, and recovery can take an emotional toll. Massage has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, making the healing process feel more manageable.


When to Start Post-Surgical Massage

Timing is key. Massage is generally introduced once your doctor has cleared you and the initial healing of the incision has begun—usually within 1 to 3 weeks post-op, depending on the procedure.


Always work with a licensed massage therapist who has experience in post-surgical care. They’ll know how to adapt techniques to avoid disrupting healing tissues and ensure comfort throughout the session.


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Conditions That May Benefit from Post-Surgical Massage

Massage therapy is commonly used after surgeries such as:

  • 🦵 Total knee or hip replacements

  • 🦴 Spinal or back surgeries

  • 🤲 Carpal tunnel release

  • 🧍‍♀️ Breast augmentation or reduction

  • 🧠 Abdominal and pelvic procedures

  • 🧑‍⚕️ Cancer-related surgeries (with physician guidance)

In each of these cases, studies have shown that massage therapy can complement physical therapy, reduce pain medication needs, and lead to better functional outcomes.


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Final Thoughts

Recovering from surgery isn’t easy—but it doesn’t have to be harder than it needs to be. As the American Massage Therapy Association points out, massage therapy is a proven way to support healing, reduce pain, and regain strength and mobility more efficiently.

If you’re preparing for or recovering from surgery, consider talking to your doctor or care team about adding massage therapy to your recovery plan. It’s more than just a luxury—it could be a game-changer for your healing journey.

Source: American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) – www.amtamassage.org


Relish Well-ness to the Core with our Relaxing Massage Sessions: Wellness Rituals offers effective alternative healing therapies such as Thai Yoga Massage or our Table Top Stretch Sessions. This unique healing therapy incorporates Yoga, pressure points, and reflexology, aiming to reduce body fatigue.


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