Massage for Recovery after Hysterectomy and Oophorectomy: What Does the Evidence Say?

Hysterectomy and oophorectomy are common surgical procedures that involve removing the uterus and ovaries respectively. These surgeries can be necessary for various reasons, such as cancer treatment or managing certain conditions. While they can be life-saving procedures, they can also have significant physical and emotional impacts on the person undergoing them.

One potential way to support recovery after hysterectomy or oophorectomy is through massage and other manual therapies. These therapies can help reduce pain, swelling, and muscle tension, as well as promote relaxation and improve overall well-being.

​​But what does the evidence say about the effectiveness of massage and manual therapies for hysterectomy and oophorectomy recovery?

A systematic review published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in 2018 examined the effectiveness of massage for postoperative recovery after hysterectomy. The review included eight studies with a total of 501 participants. The studies varied in terms of the type of massage used, the timing and frequency of the sessions, and the outcome measures assessed.

Overall, the review found that massage had a positive effect on several outcomes, including reducing pain, improving range of motion, and increasing overall satisfaction with the recovery process. However, the authors noted that the studies included in the review were of varying quality, which makes it difficult to draw firm conclusions about the effectiveness of massage for hysterectomy recovery.

​Another review, published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies in 2020, looked at the use of manual therapies for women with dysmenorrhoea, which is painful periods that can be a symptom of certain conditions that may also require hysterectomy or oophorectomy. The review included 12 studies with a total of 994 participants.

The authors of the review found that manual therapies, including massage, had a moderate effect on reducing pain associated with dysmenorrhoea. They also noted that more research is needed to determine the optimal type, frequency, and timing of manual therapies for this condition.

While these reviews suggest that massage and other manual therapies may be beneficial for hysterectomy and oophorectomy recovery, it's important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of these therapies. Additionally, it's important to work with a qualified and experienced massage therapist or manual therapist who can tailor the treatment to the individual's specific needs and health status.

At The WellNyss Tree, I offer a range of holistic therapies to support postoperative recovery, including massage and manual therapies. 

References:

Qian L, Wang X, Zhang Z, et al. The effectiveness of massage therapy for postoperative recovery after hysterectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Obstet Gynaecol. 2018;38(3):332-337.

Wieland LS, Manheimer E, Cheng K, et al. Manual therapies for primary dysmenorrhoea. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020;5(5):CD008753.