It seems as though there have been an unusual amount of surgeries lately. Either we’re falling apart as we’re getting older, or we’re injuring ourselves more (maybe that means we’re more active?) Either way, it seems like that surgery always grounds the person for so long, that it can take infinitely longer to heal. The pain medications fade away as well making that healing process so much more painful. What many don’t realize is how important reflexology can be to your healing process.
For those of you who remember being hospitalized after a surgery in the 60’s or 70’s, you’d remember it was quite common and customary for the nurses to then massage the patient during the healing process. Massage has always been known to be helpful to the body to heal. It’s only been in recent years where prescription medicine has begun to take precedents over natural methods.
Reflexology is a system of massage used to relieve tension and treat illness, aligning itself well with the healing process. Reflex points on the feet, hands, and head are linked to every part of the body; these points are utilized according to the surgery done in order to heal properly.
A 2012 study among cardiac surgery patients found that massage therapy significantly reduced the pain, anxiety, and muscular tension and improves relaxation and satisfaction. (PubMed).
In another study, foot massage in breast surgery patients also showed to be an effective pain management method.
Researchers agree that massage therapy is an important component in the post-op healing process. (source:www.surgerysupplements.com)
Not only does reflexology heal the surgery, it’s also quite beneficial in reducing stress and anxiety. In cases of major surgery, the patient may need assistance to reduce pain, depression, and anxiousness. In addition to the benefits of post-op reflexology, used in conjunction with a lymphatic drainage massage, it can reduce swelling.
Now, there are those that require more than just post-operative care. Those undergoing chemotherapy for cancer feel nauseas and tired; reflexology on the feet, areas corresponding to the stomach, intestine and colon help to alleviate the nausea, and make patients feel more connected and at peace.
Those with fibromyalgia also benefit greatly from reflexology. Symptoms from this debilitating disease can negatively affect energy, sleep, and the ability to function on a daily basis. Reflexology negates the side effects of this terrible disease.
With these methods; improved blood flow, increased lymphatic function, and overall calm, the body is able to increase its ability to deliver nutrients throughout the body thus shortening surgical healing time. Less need for drugs, less need for rehabilitation, and quicker recovery means the sooner you can be ‘you’ again.
