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Scar Massage & Hydration

Scar Physical Therapy/Scar Massage & Hydration

Massage techniques to mobilise scarring to improve the appearance of the scar whilst making it freer and more relaxed

Scar massage is a commonly recommended treatment in scar management, but should be applied by experts in scar mobilisation, especially in the early stages of scar formation. Scar massage/mobilisation can be effective for all types of scar from those caused by surgery, or injury; scar massage can benefit new and old, tiny or very large scars.

Massage is effective through the process of mechanotransduction and soft tissue mobilisation which can down regulate collagen production and improve the pliability of the scar.

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Not all massage techniques are appropriate for scar and should be applied specifically according to the type and age of the scar. Some scars are confined to the dermal layer (skin) others, especially after surgery cause adhesions/scarring in deeper tissues. Our physiotherapist will assess your scar and provide the most appropriate techniques for your particular scar/symptoms.

Effective hydration of the scar with an appropriate moisturising cream also helps to improve the comfort of the scar and assist in preventing excessive scar production. There is an overwhelming number of creams on the market – we can advise you on the most cost-effective, evidence-based creams for your scar.

What scar features indicate that massage may be beneficial?

  • Tethering – scar mobilisation can loosen scars which are firmly attached to underlying or surrounding tissues; this can improve the look and feel of a scar
  • Pain, hypersensitivity and itch– scar massage may improve such troublesome symptoms
  • Tightness – soft tissue manipulation softens, elongates and increases pliability of scars, this can also improve the range of movement and ease of function
  • Bulk – scar massage may help flatten certain bulky scars; nevertheless, keloid scars are unlikely to benefit.

What should I wear to my appointment?

The therapist will need to access the areas around your scar during treatment, wear comfortable clothes such as tracksuits/shorts or loose-fitting items if you prefer not to undress. If the scar is along the bikini line (such as a hysterectomy or caesarean scar) your modesty is always respected and your underwear will not be removed. The therapist will just need to expose the scar and about 1-2cm into the bikini area.

Is my scar too old to improve?

Scar tissue will never be as functional as pre-injury tissue, and we can’t ‘magic’ your scar away, but even if your scar is many decades old, it is likely to feel softer and looser with treatments.

Treatment Overview

  • Providing treatment to alleviate problematic scarring
  • Relieves tightness, pain and / or itching
  •  Appointments by highly skilled physiotherapist and scar specialist

"Ruthann is the most dedicated and knowledgeable person I have met! She has helped me understand, because she understands. I feel reassured. And I have not had this kind of [scar] massage in this country before, my face feels amazing! I couldn’t open my mouth much before and now I can. "

"You have changed my life!"

"I have been a patient under RuthAnn for over a year and am delighted with the progress I have made under her care. She has a lovely manner, is invested and caring, and has so much knowledge and expertise in her field. Since seeing RuthAnn for physiotherapy, I have had vast improvements in my neck mobility which has improved my quality of life immeasurably. She always has time to answer any questions or concerns and clearly knows her field. I would absolutely recommend her!"

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