Physiotherapy for post thyroidectomy

Hello all,

I have got a friend who had a total thyroidectomy, the operation was successful and the tumours were not malignant.

Now, about a month after the operation she still finds it hard to swallow and still suffers from pain while raising the head to full extension.

I understand that first the SCM and platysma muscles should be assessed.

Can anyone share some experience he\she had with a patient with similar condition?

Thanks.

Bear

Hi Bear,

I think each case of thyroidectomy may be unique. I've seen some people have no trouble and others have troubles as you describe. In my experience, anytime a surgery occurs there is a certain amount of issue with muscles around the area post surgery. So as you say, there may be issues with the SCM. Platysma tends to be less of a problem. Its referral pattern in the face. I'd look into scalenes as well. And there are a lot of little muscles above the hyoid bone that can cause neck and swallowing issues (ie digastric).

A good info site is: Trigger Point and Referred Pain Guide

The bibles are Simons and Travel Trigger Point books. For layperson Clair Davie's Trigger Point Therapy Workbook is great.

Does the surgeon feel everything went well with the surgery? It's always good to let the surgeon know about any issues, as they may be very familiar with why that may be occurring.