Physiotherapy, rehabilitation therapy

Manual scar therapy is a physiotherapy technique used to treat scars and improve mobility. It includes specialised hands-on massage techniques with the aim of:

• Softening and improving the mobility of scar tissue
  • Scar tissue can become stiff after an injury or surgery, restricting the mobility of skin, muscles or joints. Manual scar therapy helps improve the elasticity of the tissue.
• Reducing adhesions
  • Adhesions can cause scar tissue to bind surrounding tissues together (e.g. skin and muscle), resulting in pain or restricted mobility. Special techniques help reduce these adhesions.
• Pain relief
  • Scar tissue can be sensitive or painful. Manual techniques can reduce pain and improve blood flow.
• Improving aesthetic appearance
  • The manual therapist can smooth the scar tissue and make it less noticeable.

What does the appointment include?

Manual scar therapy begins with an assessment of the scar tissue. During the first appointment, the therapist evaluates the type of scar, the depth of tissue fibrosis and whether there are adhesions or excessive formation of scar tissue.

The therapist uses a range of methods for manual scar treatment, such as:

• Gentle stroking or kneading
• Deeper massage techniques to target structures beneath the scar tissue
• Mobilisation techniques to improve the mobility of the tissues surrounding the scar

The intensity of the therapy is adjusted based on the scar’s development and the patient’s progress. New techniques or exercises will be introduced to support the healing process.

Manual scar therapy can be beneficial after:

• Surgeries (e.g. Cesarean section, orthopaedic surgeries)
• Injuries or burns
• Other types of scars that cause functional problems

Therapy is most effective when started early, but it can also benefit older scar tissue, even if it has been years since its formation.

Manual scar therapy is not suitable if you have:

• Open or inflamed wounds
• Unhealed scars
• Signs of bleeding or leakage
• Haematoma or suspected haematoma
• Ongoing radiotherapy
• Various skin problems

Good to know

• Therapy can be started eight to ten weeks after the trauma or surgery
• For the best possible outcome, we recommend undergoing a course of manual therapy (the number of sessions needed will be determined in consultation with a physiotherapist).