Scar Massage

Why Scar Massage?

Scar massage is a non-surgical technique used in day-to-day scar and burn care. There are multiple techniques that can be used and that are quite easy to apply.

Throughout the scar healing stages (scar maturation) scars can become hypertrophic, hard, tight and stuck. Soft tissue mobilisation is a manual technique; it involves movements/mobilisations with the hand on the scar without friction, it often involves circular movements or fold (lifting) movements. These techniques help to drain oedema and soften and loosen scars. It is important to receive scar massage from a scar specialist because the techniques are not the same as normal body massages. When deciding on which techniques to use and how long for or how firmly to do them it’s important to consider the stage and state of the scar. Therapy time may vary from 5 up to 30 minutes depending on the size, location, and maturity of the scar. Scar massage is normally used together with other treatments such as silicone, exercise and pressure therapy.

With many scars the scarring is not limited to the skin, deeper structures below the skin may also be tight or stuck and various deeper tissue mobilisation may also help.

Main improvements

Possible beneficial effects of massage:

  • Reduced pain
  • Reduced scar thickness
  • Reduced itch
  • Increased pliability and flexibility
  • Increased vascularity that promotes local circulation which can increase skin temperature and promote the speed of tissue repair

Adverse effects

Adverse effects that may occur:

  • Irritation of the skin due to the massage or the lubricant used
  • Blisters and skin breakdown, especially when the epidermis is fragile or friction is applied

Scar Massage with Lubricant

Scar massage with lubricants is used for:

  • Hydration of the skin. Improved hydration reduces itching and inflammation.
  • Decreased stress and pain, this may also help improve your ability to tolerate tolerance other rehabilitation treatments.

Soft tissue mobilisation without lubricant

Mobilisation without lubricant aims to:

  • Mobilise hardened tissue
  • Mobilise adherent (stuck) scar
Photo of two hands doing scar massage
Photo of two hands doing scar massage on the back
Photo of two hands doing scar massage on the abdomen/hip region
Photo of two hands doing scar massage on the arm

Used for

Adhesion | Burn scar | Contractures | Dryness | Hypertrophic scar | Itch | Linear scar | Pain | Pliability | Redness | Thickness

F.A.Q.

When can I start scar massage after the wound has healed?

You can begin scar massage once the wound is fully healed and closed, and when you have received the green light from your healthcare provider. This timing can vary depending on the severity of the wound and the advice of your specialist.

How often and how long should I perform scar massage to see results?

The frequency and duration of scar massage can vary, but it is generally recommended to do it daily. The duration of the massage can range from 5 to 30 minutes, depending on factors such as the size, location, and maturity of the scar. Results are usually visible within a few weeks to months, but consistency in performing the massage is crucial for effective improvements.

Are there risks associated with performing scar massage, such as damaging the scar tissue?

While scar massage is generally safe, there are some risks involved, such as skin irritation from the massage, and in some cases, blisters and skin damage, especially when the epidermis is fragile or improper friction is applied. It is important to be cautious and discuss any side effects with your healthcare provider.