SCAR THERAPY

Angela is qualified in oncology scar therapy for clients and Rebecca is a qualified scar therapy practitioner.

The Restore Method for Oncology Scars

RESTORE method scar therapy has been developed to:

1. Promote healthy scar tissue formation to enhance functional and cosmetic results after cancer surgery
2. Reduce symptoms commonly observed in scars (local pain, itching, sensory dysfunction, reduced mobility
3. Reduce any ‘global’ symptoms observed in the body (distal pain, changes to smooth movementor gait, organ function changes) which occur as a result of scar or adhesion formation or fascial restrictions following surgery or trauma
4. Promote emotional wellbeing and acceptance

Scar therapy treatment programme

Like other modalities, one treatment session is beneficial, but scar therapy will have the best results when a series of treatments are delivered. There is limited research on scar therapy, so clinical evidence for the ideal duration and number of treatments to deliver is not available. The advice given is a result of working with scar tissue for many years, studying what research is available, and using clinical reasoning to make decisions. 

Single sessions of scar therapy are most useful for clients attending without any presenting scar abnormalities who want to promote optimal healing. Within the single session assessment, physical therapy and homecare advice (including a routine of scar self-massage and advice on use of creams, gels, oils or silicone) should be delivered. If no further treatment is required, a recommendation to return for a follow up appointment as the scar matures is beneficial to check healing.

Usually, towards the end of a treatment you should consider the best frequency for scheduling of follow-up treatment. This should take into account the age of the scar (immature, maturing or mature) and any gait or mobility adjustments that occur as a response to therapy. In the first 12 moths after an injury or surgery, frequent sessions of shorter duration are recommended whilst there is a higher level of activity in the immature scar. In mature scars, treatment frequency may be more dispersed to allow time for the body to adjust to new movement patterns and changes through to fascial tissue network.

Scar therapy aftercare

Rest, hydration and gentle mobility such as walking and stretches are recommended. Changes in whole body patterns can occur if tight tissue and fascia is released. You are advised to listen to your body. Gentle walking, stretching and light exercise is likely to be helpful. A gym workout, partying or staying totally immobile are all likely to generate discomfort.

As with any physical therapy, strong reactions – often described as ‘healing crisis’ – are possible, but symptoms should settle within a few days. If the pain or symptoms do not resolve or improve, you should be referred to a medical practitioner.

If you have chronic pain, it can be very useful to diarise your response (pain/energy/sleep) in the days and weeks after treatment.

Maintaining adequate moisture levels is a key factor is tissue regeneration. Ideally the immature and maturing scar require a humectant, occlusive and emollient.

For self-massage we recommend: -

Songbird Beeswax and Plantwax Blends

www.songbirdnaturals.co.uk

for aftercare of radiotherapy burn: -

Alhydran Cream

www.alhydran.co.uk

Silicone therapy for scars use Bapscarcare

www.esperehealth.co.uk