As an Amazon Associate and affiliate with other programs, I may earn revenue from qualifying purchases through affiliate links. This does not affect the price you pay. Privacy Policy / Disclosures. This site is for educational purposes only.
**Sign up for my monthly newsletter and receive a free aromatherapy ebook.**
Recovering from surgery requires rest and relaxation, along with following your doctor’s instructions. Let's look at additional self-care tips for before and after your operation:
When you are ready, and after checking with your doctor, massage can aid in your recovery. Massage around the area of surgery may not be appropriate at first. However, an overall massage to the rest of your body may improve circulation, encourage the flow of healing oxygen and nutrients, and carry away irritating waste products, potentially speeding up the healing process.
Generally, you want to stick with a gentle, nurturing massage. Leave the deep tissue techniques until you're fully recovered.
You can also try the gentle technique of lymph drainage massage, which can stimulate your immune system, reduce pain, help flush out residue of medications, and reduce swelling. Or use an energy technique, such as reiki, that involves only light, or no, touch.
The Mayo Clinic offers a free Healing After Surgery Workbook that describes various techniques you use to support healing, including acupressure, guided imagery, and aromatherapy. The workbook notes that aromatherapy can help relieve symptoms such as pain, headaches, stress, nausea, anxiety, and sleeplessness. Do not apply essential oils within four inches of your surgical incision until it is 100% healed.
Photo Credit: Gaspirtz (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0] via Wikimedia Commons