How Acupuncture Can Help In Post-Surgery Recovery
By: Daoyi Wellness
Recovering from surgery is no easy feat. From pain and inflammation to limited mobility and emotional stress, the road to healing can be long and difficult.
In Canada, more patients are turning to integrative therapies to enhance their recovery journey. One standout option is acupuncture—a traditional practice that offers real, modern-day benefits.
This article explores how acupuncture can be a powerful ally in your post-surgical recovery plan.
Let’s get right into it!
Understanding Post-Surgery Recovery
After a surgical procedure, the body enters a state of repair. This process can involve a wide range of symptoms including pain, swelling, stiffness, fatigue, and emotional distress.
Many patients also experience sleep issues and anxiety during recovery. While conventional medicine focuses on medication and rest, an integrative approach can help accelerate healing. This is where acupuncture steps in.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a central practice in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It involves the insertion of very fine needles into specific points on the body to regulate the flow of qi (pronounced “chee”) or life energy.
In modern science, acupuncture is believed to stimulate the nervous system, release endorphins, and reduce inflammation. It’s a holistic approach that aims to restore balance and encourage the body to heal itself.
Benefits Of Acupuncture For Post-Surgery Recovery
Pain Relief Without Heavy Medication
One of acupuncture’s most well-known benefits is pain relief. By triggering the release of endorphins and neurotransmitters, acupuncture can reduce the perception of pain without relying on opioids or anti-inflammatory drugs. This is particularly valuable as opioid-related deaths continue to rise in Canada.
Reducing Inflammation And Swelling
Needle stimulation can trigger an anti-inflammatory response in the body. Acupuncture helps increase local blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, which reduces swelling and accelerates tissue repair.
Enhancing Blood Flow And Tissue Healing
Proper blood flow is essential for recovery. Acupuncture promotes microcirculation, helping oxygen and nutrients reach the injured area more efficiently. This can lead to faster wound healing and tissue regeneration.
Accelerating Mobility And Physical Rehabilitation
Post-surgical stiffness and muscle tightness can make physiotherapy more challenging. Acupuncture loosens muscles and eases joint pain, making it easier for patients to engage in rehab exercises and regain mobility.
Improving Sleep And Reducing Fatigue
Sleep is when the body heals, yet many patients struggle with insomnia post-surgery. Acupuncture helps calm the nervous system and balance cortisol levels, leading to deeper, more restorative sleep.
Mental And Emotional Support
Surgery can be emotionally taxing. Acupuncture is known to ease anxiety and depression by regulating the brain’s chemical messengers. Many patients report feeling calmer and more centred after sessions.
Types Of Surgeries That Benefit From Acupuncture
Acupuncture is not limited to a specific type of surgery. Patients recovering from knee replacements, spinal surgeries, C-sections, cosmetic procedures, and even cancer-related surgeries can benefit. Whether the surgery is minor or major, acupuncture supports overall healing and well-being.
Evidence And Studies Supporting Acupuncture For Recovery
Canadian institutions like McGill University and the University of British Columbia have studied acupuncture’s impact on recovery. One study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that acupuncture significantly reduced postoperative pain in knee surgery patients.
Globally, a 2017 meta-analysis published in Pain journal concluded that acupuncture is effective in managing postoperative pain and reducing opioid use.
What To Expect During Post-Surgery Acupuncture Sessions
Treatment typically starts a few days to a week after surgery, depending on the case. Sessions may last 30 to 60 minutes and involve inserting fine, sterile needles at various points.
Most patients describe the sensation as relaxing rather than painful. A full treatment plan may involve multiple sessions per week, gradually tapering as recovery progresses.
Safety, Risks, And Considerations
When performed by a licensed practitioner, acupuncture is extremely safe. In Canada, acupuncturists are regulated by provincial colleges such as the CTCMPAO in Ontario. The main risks are minimal and may include slight bruising or temporary soreness. Patients on blood thinners or those with open wounds should consult their doctor first.
How To Find A Qualified Acupuncturist In Toronto
Look for practitioners registered with a regulatory body in your area. A simple Google search works. Ask about their experience with post-operative care and whether they collaborate with other healthcare providers. A good acupuncturist will offer a treatment plan tailored to your surgical recovery.
Combining Acupuncture With Other Therapies
Acupuncture works well alongside physiotherapy, massage, and naturopathy. It can be part of a larger recovery strategy designed to restore both physical and mental health. Be sure to inform your surgical team about all complementary therapies you are using.
Conclusion
Acupuncture offers a holistic, drug-free way to enhance post-surgery recovery. From pain relief and reduced inflammation to better sleep and emotional balance, its benefits are both physical and mental.
If you’re planning surgery or already on the mend, consider making acupuncture a part of your recovery toolkit.
FAQs
Is acupuncture safe after surgery?
Yes, when performed by a licensed practitioner, acupuncture is very safe and can support healing without interfering with conventional treatments.
How soon after surgery can I start acupuncture?
This depends on the type of surgery, but many patients start within a week. Always consult your surgeon and acupuncturist.
Can acupuncture help with post-surgery nerve pain?
Yes, acupuncture is effective in reducing nerve-related pain by calming the nervous system and improving circulation.
Does acupuncture reduce swelling after surgery?
Acupuncture promotes lymphatic drainage and blood flow, which can significantly reduce swelling.
How often should I get acupuncture during recovery?
Two to three times per week is common initially, with frequency decreasing as recovery progresses.
What does science say about acupuncture for recovery?
Multiple studies, including those in Canada, show acupuncture reduces pain, speeds healing, and lowers reliance on opioids.
Can acupuncture speed up healing after cosmetic surgery?
Yes, patients report less bruising, swelling, and pain when using acupuncture as part of their post-op plan.
Will insurance cover acupuncture in Canada?
Some extended health plans cover acupuncture. Check with your provider for specific details.
Are there risks to using acupuncture after surgery?
Risks are minimal but include mild bruising. Always see a qualified practitioner and inform them of your medical history.
How do I choose the right acupuncturist for post-op recovery?
Ensure they are licensed in your province and have experience in post-surgical care. Read reviews and ask questions before booking.
If you have any questions about our article “How Acupuncture Can Help In Post-Surgery Recovery” or need acupuncture services near Toronto contact us at info@daoyiwellness.com or connect with us on our Google My Business profile.