Post-Surgery Recovery
Canmore & Bow Valley
Surgery is the first step — recovery is where the real work happens. Lisa Rummel’s post-surgical therapy combines manual lymphatic drainage, scar tissue mobilisation, taping, and therapeutic massage to get you healing faster, moving better, and returning to life in the Bow Valley.
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Your body heals — these treatments make it heal better
Surgery creates trauma. Even the most successful procedure leaves behind oedema, altered movement patterns, restricted scar tissue, and neurological disruption. Left unaddressed, these can become chronic problems that outlast the original condition.
Lisa’s post-surgical protocols are built around three priorities: clearing fluid, releasing restriction, and restoring function — in the right sequence, at the right time post-op.
Conditions and procedures commonly treated
Lisa works with patients across plastic, orthopaedic, dental, and spinal surgery recovery pathways.
Lymphatic drainage essential post-mastectomy — reduces arm and chest swelling, helps with drain removal preparation, and supports implant or reconstruction recovery.
Knee, hip, and shoulder replacement — clears post-op oedema, reduces scar adhesion, and restores normal movement patterns faster than rest alone.
MLD is the gold-standard post-lipo treatment — removes fibrotic fluid, reduces lumpy tissue, and improves final contour results.
Jaw and oral surgery recovery — releases suboccipital and masseter tension, reduces jaw swelling, and restores comfortable bite and neck function.
Post-fusion, laminectomy, and discectomy care — addresses protective muscle guarding, hip flexor tension, and neurological recovery patterns.
Hysterectomy, appendectomy, hernia repair — abdominal scar mobilisation, iliopsoas release, and lymphatic drainage for pelvic region swelling.
Common questions
How soon after surgery can I start treatment?
Manual lymphatic drainage can typically begin once the wound is fully closed and your surgeon gives clearance. Massage and taping begin later — usually 4–8 weeks — depending on the procedure.
Do I need a referral from my surgeon?
A referral is not required to book, but some extended health plans require one for insurance purposes. It is always a good idea to let your surgical team know you are pursuing RMT care.
Is this covered by my extended health benefits?
RMT services are covered under most Canadian extended health plans. Coverage for post-surgical massage is typically strong. Direct billing is available for Alberta Blue Cross and Greenshield Canada.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends heavily on the procedure, your baseline, and how early you start. Acute post-surgical oedema often responds well in 3–6 MLD sessions. Longer-term scar and mobility work may continue for 2–4 months.
Mastectomy, breast reconstruction, abdominoplasty, liposuction.
Hip / knee / shoulder replacement, spinal fusion, ACL.
Wisdom tooth, jaw reconstruction, TMJ surgery.
Dr. Vodder method for post-surgical oedema clearance.
Book securely via Jane App — online or by phone
Available for all services.