Homeopathy and Surgery:
by Lauren Feder, M.D.

Homeopathic remedies can be used to promote healing after surgery, dental procedures and childbirth.

My daughter is going to have surgery, are there any remedies that can be used to speed up healing?

Homeopathic medicines can be used for healing from surgery as well as from the anesthesia. In the United States there are over 7 million procedures and surgeries performed each year. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery some plastic surgeons are beginning to advocate the use of the homeopathic remedy, Arnica Montana, to decrease postoperative bruising and swelling.

Surgical procedures can be traumatic to the body. The following list represents some of the commonly used homeopathic remedies for post-operative healing. It is best to have the chosen remedy (ies) on hand before so they can be used immediately following the procedure.

Arnica montana is the first medicine to use following dental procedures and surgery. In addition, Arnica is useful for bruises, swelling, muscle soreness, sprains and strains, falls and blows, overexertion from lifting, sports and childbirth.

Staphysagria  is useful for surgical wounds and lacerated tissues that have required stitches. It is also useful for wounds that remain painful and sensitive after a procedure. The mood can also be sensitive. It can help to quickly reduce the pain and inflammation to allow the wound to heal.Staphysagria can be used to speed up the recovery following episiotomies in childbirth and caesarean sections.                                                                    

Hypericum is excellent for the injury to nerves, especially fingers toes, nails, brain and spinal cord. The characteristic pains are shooting and sharp, very sensitive to touch. Hypericum is also indicated for puncture wounds (including the site of an injection).

Ledum is the primary remedy for puncture wounds. It can also be used to an area of the body following a procedure that is cold.                                                                                                          

Phosphorus can be used to treat the ill effects from anesthesia. It is indicated for nausea and vomiting following anesthesia. The person can be fearful and prefer to have company around. There is a craving for cold drinks or ice chips.

Dosing
Example:
Arnica 30C (or a higher dose, i.e. 200C)- 3 tablets to be taken 4 times a day after surgery for several days. With improvement decrease to 1-2 times a day then discontinue. Major surgery may require the remedy be used for several days.

Choose the remedy on the symptoms. Change the remedy as the person's symptoms change. With improvement, the remedy should be used less often. Remedies can be used in conjunction with other medications. For any worsening symptoms always contact your doctor immediately.



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