Post Surgical Lymphatic Therapy - Total Knee Replacement - Billings, MT
Transforming Recovery: A Case Study on Post-Surgical Lymphatic Therapy
Hey there! If you or someone you know is considering or has recently undergone knee replacement surgery at Ortho Montana, in Billings, MT you’re in the right place.
Today, we’re diving into the world of post-surgical lymphatic therapy and how it can be a game changer for your recovery journey.
What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
Let’s start with the basics. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, non-invasive technique designed to encourage the natural drainage of the lymph, which helps reduce swelling and promote healing. After surgery, your body can experience a lot of inflammation, which is where MLD comes in to save the day!
Why Consider MLD After Knee Replacement?
Reduce Swelling: After a knee replacement, swelling is a common issue. MLD helps to move the excess fluid away from the surgical site, making you feel more comfortable.
Decrease Pain: Less swelling often means less pain. By easing the pressure on your nerves and tissues, MLD can help you feel more at ease during your recovery.
Improve Scarring: Surgery can lead to fibrosis—thickening of the tissue around the scar site. MLD helps to soften and flatten scars, promoting a smoother recovery.
Boost Confidence: Many patients find it challenging to wear compression garments post-surgery. MLD can help ensure these garments fit better and are more comfortable.
The Case Study: Real Post Surgical Lymphatic Results from Ortho Montana, Billings
Now, let’s get into the exciting part—our case study! I worked with a patient who underwent a total reconstructive knee replacement at Ortho Montana, with Dr. Michael Groover and over the course of three treatments, we tracked some amazing results.
BUT FIRST I want to briefly talk about the colon. Before the legs are treated with MLD we must do a colon treatment. This is because the fluid of the legs drain into the inguinal lymph nodes to be filtered. After the lymph nodes filter the fluid from the legs, the body uses the colon to excrete and remove the unwanted toxins and fluid. The first treatment with the patient was day 5 and she had NOT had a bowel movement since before surgery.
She was taking her prescribed stool softeners everyday but with no success. I re positioned the patient to work her posterior leg and as she rolled over, she passed gas, providing her with considerable relief to the indigestion she had been feeling. She reported that in the middle of the night she had her first bowel movement, about 7 hours after her post surgical lymphatic therapy. I wouldn’t be exaggerating if I said she was more excited about ‘those’ results than the ones I’m about to share with you.
Treatment Overview
Patient Profile: K.M. 64 yr old female
Surgery Date: 11/13/25
MLD Treatment Dates: Nov. 18, Nov. 23, Nov. 27
Measurements and Results
First Treatment
Swelling Measurement Before: Mid Thigh (MT) 26.5” Above Knee (AK) 19.5” Mid Knee (MK) 17” Below Knee (BK) 17”
Swelling Measurement After: MT 25", AK 19.5", MK 16.5", BK 16.5" - Swelling at the mid thigh reduced by 1.5” was huge
Pain Level: 8
Second Treatment
Swelling Measurement Before: MT 25", AK 21", MK 16.5", BK 16"
Swelling Measurement After: MT 25", AK 18.5", MK 15.5", BK 16"
Pain Level: 5
Third Treatment
Swelling Measurement Before: MT 26.5", AK 19.5", MK 17", BK 17"
Swelling Measurement After: MT 25", AK 19.5", MK 16.5", BK 16.5"
Pain Level: 4
Visual Evidence
Here are some powerful images taken from the first treatment. As you can see, the reduction in swelling just after the first treatment are remarkable!
Why This Matters
The results from this case study are not just numbers; they represent a significant improvement in our patient’s quality of life post-surgery. By incorporating Manual Lymphatic Drainage into their recovery plan, they experienced less discomfort, better healing, and enhanced confidence as they navigated their new knee.
If you’re recovering from knee surgery or know someone who is, consider the benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage. Alex Jokela, C-MLD, C-PST specializes in post-surgical lymphatic therapy, and she’s here to support you every step of the way!