Chiropractic Care after Knee and Hip Replacement – Is It Works?

Knee and hip replacements are common surgeries for joint problems. They help relieve pain and improve mobility. But sometimes, even after recovery, patients still have discomfort or limited motion. Chiropractic care is being studied as a way to improve outcomes after these surgeries.

The study aims to find out if chiropractic care can help people who have had knee or hip replacements. Chiropractors use different treatments. They are:

• Adjustments.
• Therapy.
• Exercises.

They align joints, reduce inflammation, and improve muscle function.

We aim to explore the benefits of chiropractors after hip replacement. By looking at existing research, we want to see how effective it is and what advantages it may offer.

 Chiropractic Adjustments After Knee and Hip Replacement

​​Chiropractic adjustments after knee and hip replacement:

• Pain Management. Manual therapy can help reduce residual pain and discomfort after surgeries.
• Joint Alignment. Doctors can perform targeted adjustments to improve joint alignment. It ensures proper biomechanics and reduces stress on the replaced joint.
• Range of Motion. Through specific techniques, doctors aim to enhance joint mobility. It allows for a wider range of motion and improved functional abilities.
• Soft Tissue Therapy. Chiropractors after hip replacement may use soft tissue therapies. Those are massage and myofascial release. They address tightness, scar tissue, and adhesions in the surrounding muscles.
• Rehabilitation Exercises. Doctors can prescribe exercises and stretches tailored to the individual’s needs. It promotes strength, flexibility, and stability in the postoperative period.
• Inflammation Reduction. Spine care may help reduce inflammation in the joint and surrounding tissues. It’s done through various modalities and techniques.
• Neurological Function. Manual therapy has the potential to optimize neuromuscular function. It enhances communication between the nervous system and the musculoskeletal system.
• Well-being. Focusing on holistic functioning, spine therapy can contribute to improved well-being. And the quality of life after surgery can improve.
• Individualized Approach. Chiropractors assess each patient’s unique condition after surgery. And they tailor their treatment plan accordingly, ensuring personalized care for optimal results.
• Collaboration with Healthcare Team. Doctors can collaborate with other healthcare providers. They’re orthopedic surgeons and physical therapists. This is to provide comprehensive postoperative care and support.

Post-surgery Recovery Stories of Our Patients

Sarah’s knee replacement journey:

Sarah, an active 58-year-old, underwent knee replacement surgery due to severe osteoarthritis. After it, she experienced lingering knee pain and stiffness. Seeking extra support, Sarah incorporated chiropractic care after knee replacement. Over several weeks, her chiropractor used gentle adjustments. They were to improve joint alignment and mobility. Sarah also received soft tissue therapies to address muscle tightness and scar tissue. With the help of manual therapy, Sarah noticed a significant reduction in pain. She’s got an increased range of motion and improved function. Today, she resumed her favorite activities, such as hiking and gardening.

Mark’s chiropractic adjustments after hip replacement:

Mark, a 62-year-old retiree, underwent hip replacement surgery. He wanted to relieve chronic pain caused by arthritis. Mark experienced limited mobility and discomfort during his recovery phase. Seeking extra options, he consulted a doctor specializing in post-surgery care. The specialist addressed Mark’s specific needs with adjustments, rehabilitative exercises, and soft tissue therapies. Gradually, Mark regained strength and flexibility and improved his gait. He credits chiropractic as a vital component in his successful hip replacement recovery. It allowed him to resume his active lifestyle and enjoy his retirement fully.

Emma’s dual knee replacement recovery

Emma, a 70-year-old grandmother, faced the challenge of dual knee replacement surgeries. It was due to severe degenerative joint disease. Post-surgery, she encountered difficulties in regaining mobility and managing residual pain. Seeking comprehensive support, Emma sought manual therapy to complement her rehabilitation. Her doctor provided targeted adjustments. It improved joint alignment and employed soft tissue therapies to address muscle tightness. Emma diligently followed her exercise regimen. And she gradually rebuilt her strength and range of motion. With the help of chiropractic care, Emma experienced a transformative recovery. It enabled her to walk pain-free and actively engage in her grandchildren’s lives again.

Jason’s chiropractic adjustments after hip replacement:

Jason, a 45-year-old athlete, underwent hip replacement surgery following a sports injury. Despite his youth and prior fitness level, Jason encountered challenges during his recovery. It included limited mobility and residual pain. Seeking a holistic approach, he opted for chiropractor after hip replacement. Jason’s chiropractor performed targeted adjustments to improve joint alignment. They also used incorporated rehabilitative exercises to rebuild strength. And they used soft tissue therapies to ease muscle tension. Jason experienced accelerated recovery with consistent chiropractic sessions, surpassing his initial expectations. Today, he is back to his active lifestyle. He is participating in sports and maintaining his fitness routine. And it is all thanks to the comprehensive support of manual care.

When to See a Chiropractor After Surgery? 

Important considerations are:

• Postoperative Pain and Discomfort. If you continue to experience pain or discomfort after surgery, consult a chiropractor. They can assess your condition and provide targeted treatments to help ease the pain.
• Limited Range of Motion. You can have restricted movement or problems regaining your full range of motion. A chiropractor after surgery can use techniques to improve joint mobility and optimize functional abilities.
• Muscle Imbalances and Weakness. You may also have muscle imbalances or weakness due to surgery. Then, a chiropractor can design personalized exercise programs and rehabilitation strategies. They will address these issues and enhance strength and stability.
• Scar Tissue and Adhesions. Chiropractors can use soft tissue therapies after surgery. For example, myofascial release. It’s to break down scar tissue and adhesions that may have formed during the healing process.
• Alignment Issues. Surgery can sometimes affect joint alignment or biomechanics. A chiropractor can perform adjustments to improve joint alignment. They will reduce stress on the surgical area and promote optimal healing.
• Nerve Impingement or Neuropathy. After surgery, you can face symptoms like tingling, numbness, or nerve pain. Then, a chiropractor can assess and address potential nerve impingement or neuropathic conditions.
• Rehabilitation and Recovery Support. Doctors can work collaboratively with your healthcare team. It includes surgeons and physical therapists. It’s to provide comprehensive postoperative care, rehabilitation, and guidance.
• Holistic Approach to Healing. Chiropractors focus on the body’s holistic functioning. And they can offer a non-invasive, drug-free approach. It will support your healing process after surgery.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, researchers are still studying whether chiropractors can help after hip replacement. People’s experiences can vary. But evidence suggests that adjustments, soft tissue therapies, and exercises help with recovery. Real stories from patients show that chiropractic care may:

• Reduce pain.
• Improve joint movement.
• Make people feel better.

But it’s important to talk to your surgeon and chiropractor. Do it before getting chiropractic care to ensure it’s safe for you. With a personalized approach, spine care may improve the results and quality of life.