Abdominal surgery is a common medical procedure performed worldwide. In North America alone, 43% of individuals will undergo abdominal surgery at some point in their lives. Alarmingly, one in three of these patients will experience postoperative complications, with pain that can persist for months or even years. Understanding why this pain lingers is essential for improving recovery and quality of life for those affected.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the reasons why does pain persist after abdominal surgery, focusing on the role of adhesions and scar tissue. We’ll also explore how these issues can be treated to alleviate discomfort and restore mobility.
Common Types of Abdominal Surgery
Abdominal surgeries are performed for a variety of reasons. Common procedures include:
- Hernia repairs
- Appendectomies
- Cesarean sections (C-sections)
- Hysterectomies
- Abdominoplasties
These surgeries are typically carried out using one of two methods:
- Open abdominal surgery: A larger incision is made to access the affected area directly.
- Laparoscopic surgery: Small openings or “portals” allow instruments to be inserted for a less invasive approach.
While laparoscopic procedures often result in quicker recovery times, both methods can lead to persistent pain due to the formation of adhesions or scar tissue.
The Role of Scar Tissue and Adhesions
Scar tissue is a natural part of the body’s healing process. After abdominal surgery, the body identifies the surgical site as an injury and begins forming scar tissue to repair it. While this process is necessary, the resulting tissue often lacks flexibility and has poor blood flow. Over time, this tissue can tighten, creating adhesions that restrict the normal movement of internal organs.
How Scar Tissue Forms
To understand the impact of scar tissue, consider the example of a C-section. During this procedure, the abdomen is cut, and once repaired, the body forms scar tissue internally, just as it would form a scab on a skin wound. However, unlike skin, internal scar tissue can interfere with organ mobility.
Effects of Adhesions on Organ Function
Every organ in the abdomen has natural movement, allowing it to shift and function properly as the body moves. Adhesions can restrict this movement, leading to a range of symptoms:
Bladder Issues
Scar tissue near the bladder may cause:
- Urinary frequency: A constant urge to urinate.
- Chronic UTI-like symptoms: The sensation of recurrent infections without lab evidence.
Digestive and Sexual Health
Adhesions may also impact nearby organs, such as the gastrointestinal (GI) tract or reproductive organs, causing:
- Constipation
- Sexual dysfunction
Pain and Nerve Sensitivity
When scar tissue entraps nerves, it can result in:
- Scar sensitivity: Discomfort when clothing touches the area.
- Hypersensitivity: Pain even from minor contact, such as bedsheets brushing against the skin.
Other Complications
Scar tissue can indirectly affect other parts of the body. For example, adhesions near the abdomen can contribute to:
- Back and hip pain
- Tailbone discomfort
- Shoulder problems
These effects occur because the scar tissue influences the surrounding muscles and connective tissues, leading to a chain reaction of dysfunction.
Addressing Persistent Pain After Surgery
Treating persistent pain caused by adhesions and scar tissue requires a comprehensive approach. At clinics like Rebalance Physical Therapy, specialized techniques target the root causes of the pain. Key components of treatment include:
1. Scar Tissue Mobilization
Specific manual techniques help improve the flexibility and mobility of the scar tissue itself. These methods focus on breaking down adhesions and restoring movement.
2. Organ Mobilization
When adhesions impact the movement of organs, targeted therapy is applied to improve the mobility of tissues connected to the affected organ. For example, adhesions around the bladder or GI system are addressed to relieve symptoms like urinary frequency or constipation.
3. Muscle Therapy
Scar tissue can affect muscles in the abdomen, pelvis, lower back, and hips. Treating these muscles is crucial for alleviating pain and restoring functional movement. Physical therapy often involves:
- Stretching exercises
- Strengthening routines
- Myofascial release techniques
Why Does Pain Persist After Abdominal Surgery?
Persistent abdominal pain after surgery is often more complex than it appears. While scar tissue and adhesions are central culprits, their effects can extend far beyond the surgical site. A holistic approach to care, addressing scar tissue, organ mobility, and surrounding muscles, is essential for lasting relief.
Also read: 24 Tips for a Stronger Pelvic Floor and Better Health!
About:
I’m Hina Sheth. I have been treating complex orthopedics, sports and pelvic floor physical problems for over 25 years with amazing results. Now I want to bring my knowledge to the global community so I can spread my knowledge to you.
Our bodies are complex systems of 600 muscles and organs intertwined in a fascial system that all work together. Imbalances in this system such as trigger points, visceral and myofascial restrictions can lead to joint, pelvic, and organ issues.
Factors like nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress play a crucial role. Unfortunately, our current healthcare model does not look at our bodies as a whole and oftentimes compartmentalize musculoskeletal injuries and dysfunctions.
At Rebalance, our goal is to holistically treat this complex system to restore harmony in the body. By addressing these imbalances, we help clients improve their overall health and well-being. Our vision is to empower individuals to create a healthier lifestyle for themselves.
