For anyone who's had surgery, managing **scar tissue and adhesions** is a critical, often uncomfortable, part of rehabilitation. These can restrict movement and cause pain if not addressed properly. What techniques or treatments (massage, stretching, specific exercises) did your physio recommend, and what was your experience in breaking down and preventing these issues?
Immediately after my knee surgery, my physio started with very gentle **scar massage** once the incision was closed. It was just circular motions, then perpendicular to the scar. It felt weird but was so important for preventing it from adhering to deeper tissues. Regular, gentle stretching around the area also helped.
My physio used a technique called **Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)**, like Gua Sha tools, on my shoulder scar. It was intense but really effective at breaking up some of the tightness underneath. Following that up with active range of motion exercises was key.
For my abdominal surgery, I was told to gently stretch the skin and underlying tissue in all directions around the scar. They called it **"mobilizing the scar."** It wasn't just about the scar itself but the surrounding fascia. It definitely felt less restrictive over time.
My ankle surgery left me with some gnarly scar tissue. My physio used a lot of **deep tissue massage around the area**, even though it was uncomfortable. The goal was to prevent excessive fibrous tissue from building up and restricting movement. Consistency with this, even when painful, paid off.
It sounds like a proactive approach to scar tissue management is crucial, even if it's uncomfortable. The combination of different massage techniques and active movement seems to be key. Did anyone use any specific products, like silicone sheets or creams, that you found helpful alongside the physical therapy?
My surgeon recommended silicone sheets for the visibility of the scar, and my physio said they might also help keep the skin hydrated and pliable, indirectly aiding in tissue mobility. Hard to say definitively, but my scar is quite subtle now.
I used a rich, unscented moisturizer religiously, just to keep the skin soft. My physio emphasized that healthy skin can move more freely, which is important for the underlying tissue. Simple but effective.
I didn't use specific products, but the constant movement and stretching, combined with direct manual therapy from my PT, were the biggest factors. It was uncomfortable, but essential for regaining full range.
It sounds like hands-on therapy, consistent self-massage/mobilization, and maintaining skin health are the pillars of effective scar tissue management. It's a testament to the fact that even seemingly small interventions can have a profound impact on long-term recovery. Thank you all for sharing these crucial experiences!