Massage Therapy for Joint and Bone Replacements: Benefits and Age-Related Considerations
Massage therapy can be beneficial for individuals who have undergone joint and bone replacements. Massage can help increase circulation, reduce pain and inflammation, and improve range of motion. However, the effects of massage therapy may differ based on an individual's age and overall health.
According to a study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, massage therapy can improve knee flexion and extension in individuals who have undergone knee replacement surgery. The study also found that massage can decrease pain and increase overall functional mobility in these patients.
Another study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that massage therapy can reduce pain and improve range of motion in individuals who have undergone hip replacement surgery.
However, the effects of massage therapy may differ based on an individual's age. A study published in the Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine found that massage therapy was more effective in reducing pain and improving function in younger patients who had undergone knee replacement surgery compared to older patients.
Overall, massage therapy can be a beneficial form of therapy for individuals who have undergone joint and bone replacements. However, the effects may differ based on an individual's age and overall health. It's important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new form of therapy.