Scar Massage After Surgery

Hello, I'm Ruth - Head of Massage Services, and a Scar Massage Therapist at Ten. This video explains how massage therapy can gently support your recovery after surgery, including breast surgery. As part of your journey with us; you may be referred to massage therapy. After an operation; gentle hands-on treatment can be a reassuring part of your wider recovery; And it works alongside the care you receive from your surgical and medical teams Scar tissue massage is a gentle technique; and we usually begin it once your wound has fully healed - meaning there are no scabs present. We work slowly, always with your medical team's approval, and at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Over time, gentle scar massage may help improve the flexibility of the tissue and ease tightness or discomfort. It can also support the way a scar settles as it heals. Many people find this brings comfort, both in how the area feels and in how they feel about it. Through this approach, we also help people who develop a problem called "cording" after surgery. Cording feels like tight, cord-like bands under the arm; and it can make the shoulder harder to move. With careful, gentle treatment - we can often help ease these bands and restore more comfortable movement in the arm and shoulder. We always stay within what feels manageable for you, and we never rush the tissue or force a stretch. Massage is not only about the scar itself. Treating the surrounding muscles and soft tissue can ease the compensation patterns, that often develop when we protect a sore or healing area. Over time, this may reduce the risk of further strain or discomfort elsewhere in the body. Gentle soft tissue work can also help calm the nervous system. Many people find this eases tension; improves their sleep; and lifts their mood. Rest, and a calmer mind are important in supporting steady healing. Every treatment you receive at Ten is tailored to you; your surgery; and the stage you have reached. Our aim is always to help you regain confidence; movement; and quality of life. If you think massage could help your recovery - please speak to our team.