Scar Tissue Massage

A Scar Tissue Massage is a therapeutic hands-on technique used to improve the flexibility, function, and comfort of areas affected by scars or adhesions after injury, surgery, or trauma. Properly applied, gentle massage helps realign collagen fibers, break down adhesions, and promote better movement without causing further trauma or pain.​

Signs & Symptoms

  • Reduced mobility or stretch in the skin, muscles, or joint areas affected by scarring

  • Hard, raised, thick, or tethered scars that restrict movement

  • Discomfort, pain, or heightened sensitivity at the scar site

  • Itching, tightness, or abnormal pulling sensations during movement

  • Visible changes or adhesions in skin texture; sometimes cosmetic concerns.​

Contraindications

  • Avoid massage on scars that are unhealed, have open wounds, scabs, infection, or surgical staples

  • Do not apply deep or aggressive pressure if the scar is tender, painful, or actively inflamed

  • Massage should not be performed over skin grafts, vascular grafts, or keloid scars without medical input​

  • Gentle technique only in areas with fragile skin, altered sensation, or immediately after burns

  • Extra caution with older adults, those on blood thinners, or after recent procedures—consult healthcare provider if unsure.​

Assessment

  • Visual inspection for scar location, shape, depth, size, and texture changes

  • Palpate for mobility, firmness, adhesions, and comfort/pain levels

  • Assess surrounding tissue for compensatory tightness, loss of function, or movement limitations

  • History of injury, surgery, complications, and time since healing

  • Check stage of scar healing (massage appropriate only after full closure and absence of scabs/staples).​

Treatment

  • Begin with gentle effleurage and warming strokes to increase tissue temperature and blood flow​

  • Cross-friction massage: very gentle side-to-side pressure across the scar to help break up collagen adhesions

  • Gentle trigger point therapy or acupressure on painful or tethered areas​

  • Fascial release, slow stretching, and mobilization for flexibility and focus on gradual improvement and monitoring sensitivity​

  • Frequency often daily to weekly, with session duration limited to client comfort and tolerance​

  • Hydrate skin with oils or water-based creams, supporting soft tissue remodeling​

Self Care

  • Daily self-massage to the scar area using gentle strokes, cross-friction, or circular pressure with plant oils or creams​

  • Gradual stretching of involved muscles or joints to maintain mobility and prevent re-adhesion

  • Application of heat for comfort (if cleared), and monitoring for skin changes

  • Awareness and attention to scar movement during daily activities and avoid sudden strain or high-impact pressure

  • Seek medical review if scar develops new pain, swelling, redness, or thickening