P r i v a t e P r a c t i c e

We offer treatment-based bodywork for post surgical care and pain management through therapeutic bodywork sessions

Surgical rehabilitation Bodywork

Recommended for people during pre and post operative care.

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A surgery is a physical trauma to the body. It is done in a safe and controlled environment, by some of the most technically trained medical professionals. In the recovery process, receiving manual lymphatic drainage, nervous system regulation, scar tissue, and soft tissue integration can drastically improve the recovery process, post operative pain, and a smoother return to your activities of daily living.

  • Bodywork is for anyone undergoing a surgical procedure, especially if the surgical protocol does not refer you to see a physical or occupational therapist. It can help with:

    • post surgical pain

    • post surgical swelling management

    • scar tissue remodeling and fascial hydration

    • Restoration of range of motion and any muscle restriction due to pre surgical compensation and pain.

    • scar desensitization and nervous system re-education

    • resources and support around wound care, post surgical healing, and rehabilitation.

  • In a perfect world:

    • 1x 90-min appointment before the surgery. Focus is on providing the body with manual lymphatic drainage and nervous system down regulation. This prepares the body/tissues to undergo surgery while also creating a dialogue to answer any concerns you have.

    • 3-8x 60-min sessions the first months of recovery. Focus is on swelling reduction and pain management.

      *what surgery was performed will dictate the number of sessions needed

    • 2-8× 90-min sessions spaced out every few months, started no earlier that 6 months post operation. Focus is on scar tissue integration, range of motion restoration, and surgical sight integration.

  • The biggest difference is frequency. For the best results, we typically start to perform gentle manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) the first week after surgery and encourage seeing the client 1 or 2x week for the first few weeks and then taper out in frequency as symptoms subside and your bodies natural wound repair cycle evolves.

    The techniques performed are all gentle in nature,do not open the incision sight, and aid the bodies natural healing cycle. We typically work dry, meaning with no oil, except on discussed occasions where moisture is needed on the healing skin to prevent irritation and allow more grip.

    The sessions is similar to other table work with the support of bolsters and pillows as needed. Expect skin-to-skin contact while working around the surgical bandages and wrapping during treatment. You will stay clothed, so please dress accordingly.

  • I highly encourage all clients to get your surgeons referral for post operative bodywork. Please send us an email if you would like us to provide a script to give your surgeon.

    Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) does not need approval for post operative massage. But is not recommended if you have DVT, history of blood clots, heart failure, or kidney failure.

    Transparency and communication between healthcare providers helps each of us improve and learn more about the wide variety of practitioners and the services available. :)

  • We commonly see, but are not limited to seeing, clients for:

    • orthopedic surgeries

    • emergency/investigative procedures

    • plastic surgery/reconstruction surgery

    • gender affirming procedures

    • cancer recovery (doctors referral required) specifically breast cancer

    • c-sections or other surgical procedures related to the birthing experience.

    • spinal surgery/fusions

    • invasive abdominal or thoracic operations

    • amputations

    • burn scars/skin grafts

We suggest booking your sessions once you have secured your surgical date and in advanced of your first appointment to ensure proper frequency and availability.

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Not Sure if My services are right for you?

Reach out through email. We are always happy to set up a free consultation discuss your health needs and accommodations.

Bodywork Practice > Frequently asked questions

  • rates:

    60-min session: $125

    90-min session: $155

    120-min session: $205

    $50 surcharge for at home visits.

    Please see pricing page for financial accommodations and package information.

  • Please reach out through email. Claira intentionally sets aside a few sessions every week that only they can book for situations like this. If they cannot accommodate your needs. They have a trusted referral network of vetted and skilled therapists to refer out to.

  • We require a card on file, which can be established during the first session or when booking online. We are open to other forms of payment, if you have a specific need, such as cash or check.

  • I price my services accordingly and tipping is not expected or encouraged. We instead encourage clients to write a review on Google.

  • We are not contracted by any private insurance. We can bill all services as an out of networks provider. Please see the pricing page for more details to see if your insurance covers massage therapy.

  • A referral is highly recommended if you are on the fence about your condition and our care. Please email us if you would like us to send a script to ask your provider about our specific bodywork modalities.

  • We have a 24-hour notice cancellation policy. You will be charged the full payment amount if cancelled within the 24-hour window or if you do not show up.

If your question is not answered, please reach out through email with any concerns.

Questions?

Questions?

If you are unsure if our services could be helpful for you, would like to chat with Claira before booking a session, or want a breakdown of how we structure our business...

Please reach out! Claira always provides a 15-20 minute free consultation.