SCAR  THERAPY 

WHAT IS A SCAR AND HOW CAN SCAR THERAPY HELP?

A scar is an area of fibrous tissue that replaces the original tissue after its integrity has been disrupted by injury or surgery. The new tissue is build with the same protein, collagen, as the original one but  the collagen fibres are organised in a different way which makes the scar tissue of poorer quality and less elastic.

Scar therapy is combination of treatment techniques that help stimulate healing and soften fibrosis as the scar matures.  With the treatment the scar may become more flexible, softer, less painful or sensitive, you can experience textural changes to suppleness of the scar and the surrounding areas. If you have any scar adhesions, scar therapy can help to loosen these as well . 

The research in to the benefit of physical scar management concluded that "Physical scar management demonstrates moderate-to-strong effects on improvement of scar issues as related to signs and symptoms." You can read the study abstract here.

The scars also have wide reaching effect on other tissues near the scar but also further away. This excellent study by Alison Taylor, CHT, proposes: "... we can transform our therapeutic approach to prioritize the scars postoperatively to significantly influence patient outcomes". 

You can read the full study here.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE SCAR TREATMENT?

 

If you came after surgery or injury and have a scar, scar therapy will be part of your hand therapy session. 

  • we will look at the scar and its surrounding area, assess the texture, sensitivity, mobility and check for any adhesions or fibrosis. We will also assess if and how the scar affects your  movement in general, or if it might be contributing to any other symptoms you might experience and which you mightn't have linked to the scar. 
  • we will use a combination of techniques as required to treat the scar; these might include: applying silicon gel sheet, gentle scar massage, instrument assisted soft tissue work (IASTM), vibration therapy, stretches, Kinesiotaping, electrotherapy (T.E.C.A.R. or ultrasound) or gentle cupping 
  • you will be given instructions on self-care for you to continue at home  
  • we will re-evaluate and re-assess at every follow up appointment and continue with treatment

Regardless on technique we use, the scar therapy is very gentle and shouldn't hurt.