Articles on How Massaging Scars Can Help - www.relaxing-massage.co.uk https://www.relaxing-massage.co.uk/tag/scars/ If you like relaxation you will love Relaxing Massage Sat, 10 Aug 2024 10:36:36 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.3 https://www.relaxing-massage.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/relaxingmassagelogo266x219-150x123.jpg Articles on How Massaging Scars Can Help - www.relaxing-massage.co.uk https://www.relaxing-massage.co.uk/tag/scars/ 32 32 Burn & Operation Scar Massage https://www.relaxing-massage.co.uk/massageoperationscarring/ https://www.relaxing-massage.co.uk/massageoperationscarring/#respond Mon, 27 Nov 2023 14:41:23 +0000 https://www.relaxing-massage.co.uk/?p=2444 Specific Benefits of Massage Treatment for Burn Scars & Operation Scars Burn scars and post-operative scars are two types of wounds that can significantly impact a person’s physical and emotional well-being. Fortunately, massage therapy has shown promising results in treating these specific types of scars, offering specific benefits that can help improve how scars look, […]

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Specific Benefits of Massage Treatment for Burn Scars & Operation Scars

Picture of man being massaged.Burn scars and post-operative scars are two types of wounds that can significantly impact a person’s physical and emotional well-being. Fortunately, massage therapy has shown promising results in treating these specific types of scars, offering specific benefits that can help improve how scars look, feel and promote better healing. We start by looking at some evidence of the many massage benefits on burn marks. Then we move onto the challenges of treatment for Hypertrophic scars. Next, we look into how operation scar massage actually works in detail. After that we look into the effects scaring can have on us emotionally and how massage can also help with this. Call 07979 814388 today to book your treatment.    

Simple Cost-effective Therapy for Reductions in Scar Pain & Itching

According to Elazazy H. Prof (2018) when it comes to burn scars, massage therapy can play a crucial role in reducing their visibility and improving overall healing. He goes on to say that this type of scar therapy is easy to perform, is cost effective and is non-invasive on the whole depending on where the damage is. There was evidence from 60 adult patients offered.  30 were given the therapy and 30 in a control group just given normal nursing for burn. The conclusions said it helped decrease pain, reduced itching, enhanced formation of the scar tissue and improved other characteristics. Cho Y et al (2014) confirms some of these finding in a separate study of 76 burn patients from Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Burn Center, Seoul. So, there is good evidence massage can help burn scarring.

Types of massage stroke used on scars.

Good Therapy for Hypertrophic Scars From Burns

Burn scars can be particularly challenging because they often result in hypertrophic scarring. That being thick, hard, raised, tight, discoloured scar tissue that can become painful to touch and itchy. This can lead to limited mobility and discomfort. However, through gentle massage techniques, the collagen fibres in the scar tissue can be manipulated, helping to break up adhesions in the facia, just under the skin and increase flexibility. The increased blood flow stimulated by massage therapy also aids in the healing process by delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to the scarred area.

How Massage Can Help With Operation Scarring

Post operation shoulder scar being massaged For operations and caesarean section scars (one of the most performed operations in the UK) massage therapy can help improve the appearance of the scar and alleviate any discomfort or tightness. After an operation, the incision site can become sensitive, tight, and restrictive. Villiger M. et al (2014) tells us scars are made of nodules composed of more tightly packed collagen than normal. Myofascial scar release massage therapy can gently manipulate the scar tissue, promoting a better random alignment (for added strength in the new tissue) of regular size collagen fibres, thus improving the scar’s flexibility and look.

Fortunately for recovery afterwards, operation and c-section incisions tend to be linier, a single line in most cases. This means that any therapy that takes place can include transverse strokes, across the scar tissue helping to loosen up any cells and promoting regrowth that is more like other skin. This new skin growth after treatment can reduce pulling or tightness in the affected area, allowing for more freedom of movement and a more comfortable re-healing process as new cells form.

Emotional and Well-being Effects

happy man communicating needs wants and desiresBoth burn scars and operation scars can cause people some emotional distress. People can start to have lowered self-esteem and self-confidence when looking in the mirror or whenever they are in public and the scar might be visible. This has a marked impact on your quality of life, well-being and can even lead to social anxiety or depression. The reasons for this negative psychological impact are easy to understand. People may be thinking of being scared as a stigma, which is should not be as it is a natural part of healing. They might be grieving for the way they looked pre-injury. The scar may serve as constant reminder of a challenging, traumatic experience. They may be thinking there is no way to improve the way things look and feel. But, don’t worry massage can help on a number of fronts here.

Respected Treatment Helping With Scars & Aftereffects
Before and after 8 week of scar massage
Post operation elbow scar before and after 8 weeks of massage.

Fortunately, massage therapy is renowned for providing much-needed relief and support by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Also, it can improve the look of a scar and thus reduce any stigma you think it has because, it can look less prominent. The physical touch and therapeutic techniques used during massage can help release endorphins, which are natural mood enhancers. This can improve overall well-being and mental health, helping individuals to feel more confident. Massage therapists like we have here are non-judgmental and can help you to become more body positive. That being feeling emotionally comfortable in your own body.

In conclusion it is important to add that while massage can offer specific benefits for burn and operation scars, it is not a substitute for medical treatment. It should always be used as a complementary therapy in conjunction with other treatments under the guidance of your doctor or surgeon. Additionally, individual results may vary. Lastly it will take time to help you. You have to be patient. It may take multiple sessions (8 are recommended) of massage therapy to see noticeable scar improvements.

References:

Cho Y. et al (2014) The effect of burn rehabilitation massage therapy on hypertrophic scar after burn: A randomized controlled trial [online] available from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0305417914000655 last access 11/11/2023

Elazazy H. Prof (2018) Effect of Skin Rehabilitation Massage Therapy on Burned Patient’ Outcomes [online] available from https://core.ac.uk/reader/234692480 last access 10/11/2023

Kischer C. et al (1972) The Histiotypic Organization of the Hypertrophic Scar in Humans [online] available from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022202X15482247 last access 19/10/2023

Villiger M. et al (2014) An automated image processing method to quantify collagen fibre organization within cutaneous scar tissue [online] available from https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/exd.12553 last access 24/11/2023

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]]> https://www.relaxing-massage.co.uk/massageoperationscarring/feed/ 0 Massage Therapy for Scars https://www.relaxing-massage.co.uk/scartherapyhealing/ https://www.relaxing-massage.co.uk/scartherapyhealing/#comments Thu, 23 Nov 2023 16:33:23 +0000 https://www.relaxing-massage.co.uk/?p=2427 Unlocking the Power of Massage Therapy for Scars Scarring is a common concern for many people, whether it’s from an injury or surgery. These marks

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Unlocking the Power of Massage Therapy for Scars

massaging a tummy scar from a c-section operationScarring is a common concern for many people, whether it’s from an injury or surgery. These marks on our skin can often be a source of self-consciousness and physical discomfort as well. Whilst there are various scar treatments available, one method that has shown promising results is massage therapy. Yes, you read that right – massage therapy can help improve the appearance of scars and help a wound repair tissue better as well. In this article, we explore the power of massage therapy for scarring and how it can be a beneficial scar treatment option. We first look for evidence that massage works. Then we investigate how it can improve the look of scar tissues. Next, we detail how it can improve the way your scar feels when you touch it. After this, we look at how painful and itching scars can be helped.

The Science Behind Massage Therapy as Scar Treatment

Picture of a man giving a thumbs upScars are a natural part of the healing process for us all. However, they can be a reminder of a painful trauma from the past day in and day out. If there was evidence that massage treatment can help improve scar appearance and promote better tissue healing, wouldn’t you give it a try? I know I would. That’s where the scientific evidence behind massage scar therapy comes in.

To start with our well-respected NHS (2023) says massage of scar tissues can be a helpful part of their management. Also, according to Patel B PhD (2023) and many other scientific studies, it can improve how burn scars look. Additionally, Wang H. PhD et al (2022) also say it improved pruritus (itchiness) and relieved some of the anxiety due to the issue. Lastly, according to Garncarczyk A et al (2023) massage and some other manual therapies are viable affordable treatments for other types of healed wounds. It can be very helpful for thick raised scars (hypertrophic) and scaring that has become bigger than the wound was (keloid scars). So, experienced professionals like we have here in York providing you with a good scar massage is feasible and can be effective for many different types of scar patients.

Massage Can Improve the Look of Scars Your Well-being & Self Esteem

Before and after 8 week of scar massage
Post operation elbow scar before and after 8 weeks of massage.

You might be surprised to hear all this but, let’s face it the above is good evidence that treatment of damaged tissues with regular scar massage can be a powerful solution for you. It can also help your wellbeing and self-esteem by diminishing their psychological impact. This can happen by improving the way your scars look.

One of the main ways massage therapy can improve the appearance of scars is by increasing blood flow to the area. By gently manipulating the scar tissue, massage stimulates blood flow via heat from stroke friction. Also, if you can imagine cells are all in a liquid. We are on average 60% water according to Kubala, J MS, RD et al (2020). So, massage can loosen cells in the area of concern allowing more free movement of them in the tissue. Massage strokes also encourage the removal of deoxygenated used blood. This in turn means accelerated delivery of new blood full of vital healing nutrients and oxygen to the site. This increased blood flow and cell movement can help to break down old scar tissue and promote the growth of new, healthier, better-looking skin cells. This means the underlying scar tissues can become refreshed as well as the surface of the skin. If it looks better to you this can make you happier, and more self-confident increasing your well-being and self-esteem. It’s an all-round win really.

Improvement of Scar Feel Flexibility & Pliability

In addition to all the possible benefits above, massage can also help to improve the flexibility and pliability of scar tissue. When scars form, the overexpression of collagen fibres in the skin can become somewhat disorganised. They are definitely required to heal the wound as best the body can. However, the excess collagen fibres, fibroblasts and new small blood vessels all of which make up scar tissues according to Chapelle S (2016) can lead to unsightly, discoloured, tight, inflexible and oversized keloid scars. Through its soothing, gentle, repetitive motions, massage therapy can help to align the collagen fibres and break up adhesions, where tissue is holding onto other tissue unnecessarily. This can result in a scar that is more supple and flexible. So, not only can it end up looking better but, massage can help what your scar feels like too as an added bonus.

Relief from Itching and Painful Healed Wounds

massage can offer you itchy scar reliefIn addition to the evidence that massage therapy can improve the physical appearance of scars, it can also provide good relief from common symptoms such as itching and pain. The gentle pressure applied during massage can stimulate nerve endings and disrupt the signals that cause itching and discomfort. More specifically Patel B. PhD et al (2023) tell us gentle, soothing effleurage strokes and medium-pressure petrissage strokes (e.g. kneading and wringing) in longer sessions helped with scar pain as well as how it looked afterwards. But, all types of massage improved how itchy scars were. So, in essence massage can bring much-needed relief to individuals who have been suffering from the ongoing effects of their scars. Let’s face it, life would be much improved if your itching and pain were reduced.

Limitations of Massaging Scars and Other Treatment Options

We are an ethical practice and like to be honest with you. So, we want to inform you about limitations as well as what can be done. It is important to note that massage therapy does not magically remove scars or completely eliminate their appearance. It can help with pain and how they look to an extent but, it is not a cure for scarring. In the 21st century scar removal is questionable or at least in its infancy thus, if anyone tells you they are offering treatment to remove scars, be wary. Having said this, when massage is used regularly or even as part of a multifaceted and comprehensive scar treatment plan, it can significantly improve the overall healing, itching, pain and the appearance of scars.

References:

Chapelle S (2016) UNDERSTANDING AND APPROACH TO TREATMENT OF SCARS AND ADHESIONS [online] available form https://www.squamishintegratedhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/Evidence-Based-Scars-Adhesions.pdf last access 10/11/2023

Kubala, J MS, RD et al (2020) What is the average percentage of water in the human body? [online] available from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-percentage-of-the-human-body-is-water last access 14/11/2023

Patel B. PhD et al (2023) Efficacy of Massage Techniques for Hypertrophic Burn Scars – A Systematic Review of Literature [online] available from https://academic.oup.com/jbcr/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1093/jbcr/irad140/7270579?login=false last access 12/11/2023

Wang H. PhD et al (2022) Effects of scar massage on burn scars: A systematic review and meta-analysis [online] available from https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jocn.16420 last access 21/11/2023

NHS (2023) Scar management Scar massage … [online] available from  https://www.southtees.nhs.uk/resources/scar-management/ last access 17/11/2023

Wikipedia (2023) Scar [online] available from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scar last access 23/22/2023

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]]> https://www.relaxing-massage.co.uk/scartherapyhealing/feed/ 2 Scar Treatment https://www.relaxing-massage.co.uk/scartreatment/ https://www.relaxing-massage.co.uk/scartreatment/#comments Wed, 22 Nov 2023 12:12:42 +0000 https://www.relaxing-massage.co.uk/?p=2416 6 Practical Tips for Effective Scar Treatment With Massage When it comes to improving the look of your scar tissue with massage, we can offer

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6 Practical Tips for Effective Scar Treatment With Massage

Before and after 8 week of scar massage
Post operation elbow scar before (A) and after (B) 8 weeks of massage.

When it comes to improving the look of your scar tissue with massage, we can offer you some practical tips that can help ensure the treatment you choose is effectiveness. In summary these include these 6 points. Always look for a qualified, experienced professional. You should not get massage treatment for scarring until the tissues are quite well healed.  Improving the appearance of scars means using the proper techniques as detailed below. It will take time, so be patient, massage is not a miracle cure to get rid of scarring. Massage and creams to make scars look better can work well together.

6 Key Guidelines to Follow for Massaging Scar Tissue:

  1. Consult with a qualified massage therapist: It’s important to work with a massage therapist who has experience in scar treatment. They will have the knowledge and skills to provide effective massage techniques that target the specific needs of your scar. They can also advise you on the frequency and duration of scar massage sessions. Once per week for 8 weeks with home treatment regime would be a good start.
  2. Wait for the right time: It’s crucial to wait until your scar has fully healed before starting scar massage. This typically takes around 6-8 weeks, but it may vary depending on the individual and the type of scar. Consult with your healthcare professional to determine the appropriate time to begin scar massage.
  3. Use appropriate techniques: There are various massage techniques that can be used for scar treatment according to NHS (2023), including effleurage stroking, petrissage, spiral and transverse deep rubbing, pinching, myofascial techniques, percussion to break up cells in underlying tissues and friction. Your massage therapist will be able to determine the most suitable technique for your scar based on its characteristics and your specific needs. They will also teach you how to perform self-massage at home to complement the professional treatment.
  4. Be gentle and patient: Scar massage should be performed with gentle pressure, avoiding any pain or discomfort. It’s important to be patient and consistent with scar massage, as it may take time to see noticeable improvements. Regular and gentle massage sessions, performed over a period of several weeks or months, can lead to significant changes in the appearance of scars.
  5. Use appropriate products: Depending on your scar’s characteristics, and your skin type your massage therapist may recommend the use of specific products during and after scar massages. These products, such as almond oil or aqueous cream penetrate the skin, can help to enhance the effectiveness of the massage and provide additional benefits to the skin according to the NHS (2023).
  6. Be consistent: Consistency is a key when it comes to good scar treatment. It’s important to adhere to the recommended frequency and duration of massage sessions, as well as any self-massage routines at home. By being consistent, you can maximise the benefits of scar massage and improve the overall healing and appearance of your scars.

Some Honest Ethical Advice About Getting Scar Treatament

Microscope view of C-section scar before (A) and after (B) some manual scar therapyRemember, scar massage is good but, it can be one part of a more comprehensive scar treatment plan. It can be used in conjunction with other scar treatments and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional for greatest effect.

We want to be honest and ethical with you so, we should tell you the following. While according to de Oliveira A. et al (2018) and many other scientific and medical reports scar massage can significantly improve the appearance of scars, it is not a treatment for scar removal. Scars are a natural part of the healing process and cannot be completely eliminated. However, with the power of massage therapy, you can unlock the potential for improved healing, better looking skin afterwards and greater self-confidence with what you healed skin looks like.

References: 

de Oliveira A. et al (2018) Randomized controlled trial of the immediate and long-term effect of massage on adult postburn scar  [online] available from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30626496/ last access 10/11/2023

NHS (2023) Scar management [online] available from https://www.southtees.nhs.uk/resources/scar-management/ last access 20/11/2023

Lubczyńska A et al (2023) Effectiveness of various methods of manual scar therapy [online] available from https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/srt.13272 last access 16/11/2023

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