When we undergo surgery, the body needs time, rest, and extra support to recover properly. Postoperative chiropractic massage, a manual technique based on anatomical and physiological knowledge of the body, has become a great ally during this process.
With over 15 years of experience in practice, I have worked with many patients who, after surgery, arrive with pain, stiffness, swelling, or even a fear of moving. In these cases, chiromassage not only relieves physical discomfort but also gives them confidence, helps them reconnect with their bodies, and accelerates a more natural and complete recovery.
Unlike a relaxing or cosmetic massage, postoperative chiromassage has a very specific therapeutic focus: stimulating circulation, reducing compensatory tension, preventing adhesions, and promoting tissue regeneration. Of course, it is always tailored to the type of surgery, the stage of the healing process, and, of course, in coordination with the medical team.
In this article, I'll tell you how and why chiromassage can make a big difference after surgery, based on my experience with both Western and Eastern treatments, combining techniques learned in Spain and Korea.
What is postoperative chiromassage and how does it affect the body?
Postoperative chiromassage is a manual technique that uses a variety of maneuvers—such as kneading, friction, pressure, and gentle stretching—to improve the condition of the muscular, circulatory, and nervous systems. Unlike other types of massage, chiromassage is based on a solid foundation in anatomy and physiology, allowing each session to be tailored to the patient's specific needs.
When a person is recovering from surgery, their body enters a very delicate phase: there is swelling, tenderness, stiffness, and even changes in posture or movement. This is where chiromassage plays a fundamental role.
This happens because chiromassage acts directly on:
- Blood circulation, promoting the arrival of oxygen and nutrients to the damaged tissue.
- The lymphatic system, helping to eliminate postoperative edema and inflammation.
- The musculature, reducing the tensions and stiffness that appear due to lack of movement or defensive postures.
- The nervous system, inducing a relaxation response that improves rest and reduces stress, something very important after surgery.
As you can see, it's not just about "giving a massage," but rather about applying a precise technique with a clear therapeutic objective.
Effects of chiromassage on post-surgical tissue
After surgery, the body begins a repair process that, although natural, doesn't always follow an easy path. Inflammation, muscle tension, limited movement, and even tissue adhesions can occur. This is where chiromassage, applied with knowledge and care, can make a huge difference.
- Reduction of inflammation
After surgery, fluid accumulation (edema) in the affected area is very common. Chiromassage stimulates lymphatic drainage, helping to eliminate this excess fluid.
- Improves blood and lymphatic circulation
When we improve circulation, we help tissues receive more oxygen and nutrients, which speeds their recovery. Furthermore, good circulation prevents the formation of clots or blockages that can complicate healing. In patients with hip or knee surgery, for example, working the entire leg, even away from the scar, helps the entire system function better.
- Prevention of adhesions and fibrous scars
One of the most common complications after surgery is the formation of adhesions: areas where tissues "stick" together due to excessive scarring. This can limit movement and cause chronic discomfort. Chiromassage, especially in combination with myofascial techniques, helps maintain tissue elasticity and promote proper scar maturation.
Pain relief without drugs
One of the most valued benefits of postoperative chiromassage in postoperative recovery is its ability to relieve pain without having to rely exclusively on medication. Although painkillers are necessary in many cases, they are not the only way to feel better. In fact, a well-applied manual approach can reduce the required dose or shorten the duration of medication use.
Pain after surgery doesn't always come only from the treated area. It's often the result of reflex tension, prolonged immobility, or postures we adopt to protect ourselves. This is where chiromassage acts as a powerful tool: it relaxes the muscles, releases the fascia, and stimulates the production of endorphins, our own natural painkillers.
Common cases where chiromassage helps in recovery
Each surgery leaves a different mark on the body, but there are patterns that are repeated in many cases. Properly applied, chiromassage can be adapted to different types of surgical interventions to support the body's recovery, always respecting healing times and working in coordination with other healthcare professionals.
- Orthopedic surgeries (knee, hip, shoulder)
These are among the most common conditions encountered in consultations. Procedures such as hip replacements, knee ligament reconstruction, or rotator cuff surgery on the shoulder often leave severely inflamed areas, inhibited or contracted muscles, and a significant loss of mobility.
In these cases, the work is done in phases: first, drainage and relaxation of compensations, and gradually, recovery of movement, fascial work, and postural re-education.
- Abdominal and gynecological surgeries
After surgeries such as cesarean sections, hysterectomies, or hernias, it's common for internal adhesions to form, causing discomfort even months later. Chiromassage in these situations not only relieves associated lower back or pelvic pain but also improves visceral movement and the sensation of "blockage" in the area.
- Aesthetic interventions
Although it is often thought that this type of surgery does not require functional recovery, the truth is that inflammation, fibrosis, or limited movement are often present. In procedures such as liposuction, abdominoplasty, or breast augmentation, chiromassage helps drain tissue, prevent encapsulation, soften scars, and restore tissue elasticity.
When and how to start chiromassage after surgery
One of the most frequently asked questions I get in consultations is: "How long do I have to wait after surgery to start chiromassage?" And the answer, like almost everything in health, is: It depends on the type of surgery, the general condition of the patient and the progress of the recovery..
Phases of recovery and treatment adaptation
We can divide recovery into three phases, and in each one, chiromassage plays a different role:
- Acute phase (first days or weeks)
Here, the body is focused on healing. If there are drains, stitches, or significant pain, working directly on the operated area is not recommended. However, we can begin treating nearby areas to relieve tension and stimulate circulation. For example, after knee surgery, working on the foot, calf, or hip can be very helpful without touching the inflamed area. - Subacute phase (when inflammation subsides and the wound is closed)
This is the ideal time to introduce gentle techniques such as lymphatic drainage, superficial fascial release, or passive mobilization. Here, we begin to work more precisely on the treated area, always adapting to the patient's pain threshold. - Functional recovery phase (when mobility is already present but stiffness or residual pain remains)
At this stage, we use more in-depth techniques: muscle massage, myofascial release, assisted stretching, and even postural correction. The goal is to restore full function and prevent any lasting effects.
Precautions and contraindications
Although postoperative Chiro massage has many benefits, It is not always advisable to apply it immediately or in all cases.Some absolute or relative contraindications include:
- Fever or active infection
- Deep vein thrombosis (special care in extremities)
- Open wounds or drains still present
- Very marked acute inflammation
- Uncontrolled clotting problems
That's why I always insist: before starting any manual post-surgical treatment, it's important to speak with the doctor or surgeon in charge and work in a coordinated manner.
An integrative approach to healing better
Recovery after surgery isn't just about "waiting for your body to heal itself." It's an active process that requires care, progressive movement, professional support... and, above all, personalized attention. Along the way, chiromassage can be a great ally: not only relieves symptoms such as pain or inflammation, but helps the body regain its balance more quickly and harmoniously.
From my experience as a massage therapist and osteopath, I've seen how a well-targeted manual intervention can make the difference between a slow recovery and a conscious, functional, and long-term recovery without side effects. And most importantly: It empowers the patient, restores confidence in their body, and connects them with their well-being.
Of course, each treatment must be tailored to the type of surgery, the stage of the patient's progress, and their specific needs. And it must always be accompanied by medical follow-up. But when all of this is combined with the art of touch, anatomical knowledge, and active listening to the body... recovery becomes an opportunity to heal beyond the wound.
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