4. Enhancing Breast Surgery Recovery with Massage Therapy: Evidence from a Systematic Review

Recovering from breast surgery involves not just physical healing but also managing pain, reducing scar tissue, and addressing psychological well-being. Alternative therapies like massage have gained recognition for their role in enhancing recovery. This blog post discusses findings from a systematic review that underscores the importance of integrating massage therapy into post-operative care to improve both physical and mental health outcomes.

The Role of Alternative Therapies in Post-Surgical Recovery

Alternative therapies, including massage, are increasingly recognized for their ability to support recovery after breast surgery. A systematic review by Abushukur et al. (2022) highlights how these therapies can complement conventional medical treatments, providing a more holistic approach to healing. Massage therapy, in particular, has been shown to reduce pain, prevent hypertrophic scar formation, and improve psychological well-being.

Pain Management: How Massage Therapy Makes a Difference

Pain is one of the most significant challenges patients face after breast surgery. Massage therapy has been found to be particularly effective in managing this pain, offering a non-pharmacological option that can reduce the need for medication. Abushukur et al. (2022) found that regular massage therapy sessions significantly decrease post-operative pain levels, allowing patients to move more comfortably and recover more quickly.

Reducing Scar Tissue and Improving Aesthetic Outcomes

The formation of scar tissue is a natural part of the healing process, but it can sometimes lead to complications, including restricted movement and aesthetic concerns. The review by Abushukur et al. (2022) indicates that massage therapy can help prevent the development of hypertrophic scars and improve the texture and flexibility of the skin. This not only enhances the physical recovery but also boosts patients’ confidence and satisfaction with their surgical outcomes.

Psychological Well-Being: A Key Component of Recovery

Surgery can take a toll on a patient’s mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. Massage therapy provides psychological benefits by reducing these feelings of distress and promoting relaxation. Patients who receive regular massage therapy as part of their post-operative care report lower levels of anxiety and a greater sense of overall well-being (Abushukur et al., 2022).

Conclusion: Integrating Massage Therapy for Comprehensive Recovery

The integration of massage therapy into post-operative care is more than just a luxury; it’s a necessity for comprehensive recovery. By managing pain, reducing scar tissue, and supporting psychological health, massage therapy plays a critical role in the healing process. Healthcare providers should consider incorporating massage into standard post-operative care protocols to enhance recovery outcomes for breast surgery patients.

References:

Abushukur, Y., Cascardo, C., Ibrahim, Y., & Teklehaimanot, F. (2022). Improving breast surgery outcomes through alternative therapy: A systematic review. Cureus, 14(5), e25130. Retrieved from NCBI

Eryn Price RMT has been in the healing arts for 25 years, instructing massage therapists for over a decade and has put over 500 therapists through her Mastectomy Guide certificate programs in the past 3 years. She is incredibly passionate about filling the gap in women's and trans health relating to accessing safe, educated, and ethical care for post-surgical rehabilitation from breast and chest surgery. To learn more about future training opportunities to enhance your massage therapy practice, please visit https://www.mastectomyguide.com/list-of-upcoming-courses.