Scar tissue rehabilitation
Scar tissue is an inevitable consequence of injury and surgery, yet scar massage remains inconsistently applied and frequently misunderstood in clinical practice. This session will explore the fundamentals of scar massage, focusing on what it is, why it is used, and when it is appropriate following injury or surgery. Physiotherapists will gain a clearer understanding of scar tissue formation, the physiological rationale behind scar massage, and how timing, tissue healing stages, and patient factors influence outcomes. Common myths, contraindications, and clinical reasoning errors will be addressed, alongside practical guidance to support safe, effective integration of scar massage into rehabilitation programmes. This session is suitable for clinicians seeking to strengthen their confidence, consistency, and clinical reasoning when working with scars.
Learning Objectives
1. Describe the basic physiology of scar formation and tissue healing
2. Explain the rationale for scar massage in rehabilitation
3. Identify when scar massage is appropriate — and when it is not
4. Recognise common misconceptions and risks associated with scar massage
5. Apply simple clinical decision-making principles to post-surgical and post-injury scars