ScarWork Therapy
ScarWork is a specialised gentle manual treatment, similar to scar massage, to help patients with scar tissue, fibrosis, adhesions and change in tissue health following surgery and radiotherapy. Sharon Wheeler, an American therapist, developed these techniques over the last 40 years and now teaches around the world. ScarWork treatment is a gentle manual therapy which means that treatment is always given within the clients comfort levels.
What type of scars could be treated with ScarWork?
There are a few exceptions in terms of the types of scars that can be worked on, including Keloid scars. If you have had abdominal surgery and are aware that a mesh has been fitted, direct work over that area is unsuitable.
If you are unsure please check with your GP or consultant if you can safely have any massage treatment for your scar.
A few examples of scars that can be treated using ScarWork therapy are:
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Abdominal surgery
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Hip replacement
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Burns
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Gall bladder removal
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Knee surgery
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DIEP flap surgery
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C-Section
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Facial scars
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Appendectomy
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Mastectomy/Lumpectomy
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Road traffic accident
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Cancer surgery
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Hysterectomy
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Open heart surgery
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Spinal surgery
ScarWork can be used on surgical scars, burns or accidents
Scars can have a great impact on connective tissue dysfunction, muscle impingement, muscle atrophy or trapped and irritated nerves
After an accident, surgery or burn, the body will start healing itself as quick as it can but within this process it will start producing scar tissue for "stability". It’s primary response is to seal the wound to prevent infection so it doesn’t carefully redefine the layers of tissue, or replicate the organisation or structure of the skin, connective tissue and muscle in it's replacing. This means that the different layers under the skin can get stuck together. These adhesions can restrict mobility and function of the affected and surrounding area. Over time these restrictions will be the start of compensation patterns as the body needs to adapt to the new reduced movement available. Such adaptions can cause increased tension in certain areas of the body and also weakness in others as functionality decreases.
The intention behind ScarWork is to improve the feel, health and function of the scarred area and the surrounding tissue also to encourage and enhance the movement available between all structures involved.
Scarwork can stimulate the area and encourage further natural healing to occur including stimulating damaged nerves that cause numbness or hypersensitivity. In terms of the visual aspect, scars can appear lighter, smaller, flatter, faded and softer.
Find out more or book a session
ANCA BRATU
As a dedicated sports and remedial massage therapist and proud member of the Sports Massage Association (SMA), I am passionate about sharing my knowledge to empower clients on their wellness journeys.
I specialize in sports massage, pregnancy massage, oncology massage, and scarwork therapy, with a focus on helping each client understand and care for their own body.
My approach goes beyond simply addressing physical discomfort—I strive to educate and support clients in maintaining their well-being long after each session.
By working together, I aim to help you feel empowered, resilient, and deeply connected to your own health.
