Hip replacement surgery is a common treatment for joint degeneration caused by osteoarthritis, injury, or age-related wear. While the procedure can significantly improve mobility and reduce pain, the recovery phase is often the most demanding part of the journey. Many patients ask if remedial massage can help with hip replacement recovery — and the answer is yes.
When used at the right stage of healing, remedial massage can assist in reducing pain, improving movement, and supporting overall rehabilitation.
How does remedial massage help with hip replacement recovery?
Remedial massage plays a complementary role in the post-operative phase by easing muscle tension, improving circulation, and reducing inflammation. These effects help the body heal more efficiently while making day-to-day movement more comfortable.
Let’s explore the key benefits below.
Can massage help manage pain after hip surgery?
Yes, remedial massage is an effective natural option for post-operative pain relief. After surgery, many patients experience tension around the surgical site due to muscle guarding, scar tissue formation, or fascia tightening. This can lead to referred pain in surrounding areas like the lower back or opposite hip.
A trained therapist will use soft tissue techniques to:
- Release surrounding muscle tension
- Improve blood flow to the area
- Reduce nerve irritation
- Ease tightness caused by fascial adhesions
This can reduce reliance on medication and improve your ability to participate in physical therapy or exercise.
Does remedial massage reduce swelling?
Swelling is a normal part of recovery, but excessive inflammation can slow progress. After hip surgery, your body sends blood and fluids to the area to protect and repair tissue, which often leads to uncomfortable swelling.
Remedial massage techniques such as lymphatic drainage and effleurage can:
- Improve fluid movement through the lymphatic system
- Reduce local inflammation
- Minimise swelling and stiffness
- Speed up healing around the joint
Reducing swelling also makes it easier to move the joint during rehab.
Can massage improve circulation and healing?
Yes. One of the most important roles of remedial massage in hip replacement recovery is promoting healthy circulation. Improved blood flow brings essential nutrients — including oxygen, hydration, and healing proteins — to the affected area.
By enhancing tissue repair, massage can support the body’s natural healing process and help prevent complications related to immobility.
Learn more about remedial massage at MCNT, or explore myotherapy for joint rehabilitation as a complementary treatment option.
When should you start remedial massage after hip replacement?
Massage should only begin once your surgeon or physiotherapist confirms that the surgical site is stable and well into the healing phase. This usually happens between 4–8 weeks post-surgery, depending on the individual.
Therapists will avoid direct pressure over the surgical area and tailor treatment to your mobility, pain level, and overall recovery plan.
Massage is a powerful recovery tool
Remedial massage can be a safe and supportive treatment during hip replacement recovery. It helps relieve pain, reduce swelling, and improve tissue healing, all while supporting your physical rehab goals. When integrated with exercise, stretching, and physiotherapy, it becomes part of a comprehensive recovery strategy.
Ready to support your recovery naturally? Book a session with our team today.
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