I met up with a friend today who has had a pin put in her leg after an accident, she was recommended to take arnica tablets after the surgery to speed healing. Anyone here been been recommended this, or used this as a post-surgery treatment?

I've been using Arnica orally and topically for years for anything from small bruises, sore muscles, and yes after surgery (knee and VSG). It is homeopathic, has very few if any reactions with other medicines, and is nearly impossible to overdose. And since it's sublingual, no worries about upsetting the stomach. It's hard to say how much of a difference it really makes since I don't have a control to compare it to (only one of me), but it helped after my knee surgery. Do make sure you take the right dosage for your situation.

I've been using Arnica orally and topically for years for anything from small bruises, sore muscles, and yes after surgery (knee and VSG). It is homeopathic, has very few if any reactions with other medicines, and is nearly impossible to overdose. And since it's sublingual, no worries about upsetting the stomach. It's hard to say how much of a difference it really makes since I don't have a control to compare it to (only one of me), but it helped after my knee surgery. Do make sure you take the right dosage for your situation.

Thanks!

How much did you take after your VSG? There are no homeopaths here so can't really find out...if it is as good as people say it is, I'd like to try it out.

what is arnica? does it require a RX?

Since I am NOT A DOCTOR, I would advise you to talk to your doctor first, make sure he's aware of you taking it. Most appreciate knowing about any herbal or homeopathic remedies. Especially since I do not know what medications you are taking or not taking!!!

For my knee surgery, I was instructed to take Arnica Montana (30c dosage) Arnica Montana is available in health food stores. You want to purchase 30c tablets. Obtaining the correct dosage is important as it reflects the dilution. A 30x dosage is ten times more concentrated. Take two tablets, three times a day, for the first three days after surgery. Place the tablets under your tongue to dissolve about 15 minutes to 30 minutes before eating. Boiron is the most trusted brand I use. You may want to go with a slightly smaller dosage like 6c (that's what I use for basic bruising and strains). Do not use the topical Arnica (Traumeel, etc) on open cuts or incisions!

You do not need a prescription, but again -- tell your doctor in case any medication he may have you on should have complications or may be compromised in effectiveness.