Recovery after surgery can feel like a long road ahead. It can be daunting, but the good news is there’s plenty within your control to help you heal along the way. Chiropractic care isn’t usually the first thing that comes to mind, but when done at the right time and with your surgeon’s approval, it can actually support your recovery. So, let’s take a closer look!
Chiropractic Care for Post-Surgical Recovery
Recovering from surgery isn’t just about healing the surgical site—it’s about how your whole body adapts. After surgery, you might move differently to avoid pain, which can put extra strain on other areas. Over time, these adjustments can lead to discomfort and even slow your recovery. That’s where chiropractic care, when timed right, can help.
Chiropractic care during recovery focuses on:
- Supporting proper alignment in areas away from the surgical site
- Maintaining mobility in unaffected joints
- Preventing compensatory issues from developing
- Promoting optimal nervous system function
- Addressing pre-existing conditions that could impact recovery
- Supporting overall body balance and function
How Long After Surgery Can You Go to a Chiropractor?
When you can start chiropractic care after surgery depends on a few important factors. Your surgeon’s approval is always the first step. The type of surgery, how well you’re healing, and your overall health all play a role in determining when it’s safe to begin treatment.
Types of Surgery and Waiting Periods
Different surgical procedures require different healing times. For example, minimally invasive procedures might allow for earlier chiropractic care compared to major surgeries. Joint replacements, spinal surgeries, and procedures involving bone healing typically require longer waiting periods before any manual therapy can begin. Either way, getting your surgeon’s approval beforehand is of the utmost importance!
The Healing Process
Your body goes through distinct healing phases after surgery, which include:
- Inflammatory Phase (0-5 days): Your body initiates the healing response.
- Proliferative Phase (5-21 days): New tissue begins to form.
- Remodeling Phase (21 days-1 year): Tissue continues to strengthen and mature.
Most surgeons recommend waiting until you’re well into the remodeling phase before beginning any manual therapy, including chiropractic care. This typically means waiting at least six to eight weeks, though this timeframe can vary significantly based on your specific situation.
Signs You’re Ready
Several indicators suggest you might be ready for chiropractic care, such as:
- Your surgical incision has fully healed
- You’ve completed your initial physical therapy program
- You have good range of motion in areas away from the surgical site
- You’re experiencing no acute pain or inflammation
- Your surgeon has cleared you for additional therapies
The At Last Chiropractic team understands that post-surgical recovery requires a careful, individualized approach. Your local Lithia chiropractor works closely with your surgical team to ensure any treatment aligns with your recovery goals. We begin with a thorough evaluation of your condition and surgical history before developing a gentle, targeted care plan that supports your healing process.
Your post-surgical chiropractic care plan always starts with the most conservative approaches, gradually progressing as your body shows readiness for more comprehensive treatment. We continuously monitor your response to care and adjust our techniques to ensure optimal support for your recovery.
Ready to learn more about how chiropractic care might support your post-surgical recovery? Book your appointment with our trusted team today. Let’s get you on the path toward a full recovery!
