Dr. Vaishali Suri (P.T.)
Scar Tissue: Normal Healing with Potential Complications
Scar tissue formation is a normal part of wound healing following surgery or injury. However, poorly managed scar tissue can cause: restricted joint movement (from scar adherence to underlying tissues), pain (particularly in neuromatous scars where nerve fibres are incorporated), cosmetic concerns (hypertrophic or keloid scars), and functional limitations from adhesions between tissue layers.
Types of Scar
Hypertrophic scar: raised, red, and thick scar that remains within the original wound boundary. Common after burns and orthopaedic surgery. Keloid scar: extends beyond the original wound boundary. More common in darker skin types. Adherent scar: scar that adheres to underlying structures (tendons, joint capsule, fascia), restricting movement. Very common after orthopaedic surgery.
Physiotherapy Scar Management
Scar Massage
Once the scar is fully closed (usually 6 weeks post-surgery), scar massage is applied daily -- using firm circular and transverse friction across the scar and adjacent tissues. Scar massage reduces adhesion formation, maintains tissue mobility, and desensitises hypersensitive scars.
Silicone Therapy
Silicone sheets or gel applied over the scar for 12+ hours daily significantly reduces hypertrophic and keloid scar formation. Should be applied once the scar is fully epithelialised.
Neural Desensitisation
Scars that are hypersensitive (common after nerve involvement) benefit from desensitisation programmes -- progressive tactile stimulation starting with soft materials and progressing to firmer textures.
Scar Management in Faridabad
At Realign Rehab Clinic, NIT-5, Faridabad, we provide comprehensive post-surgical scar management. Book your consultation today.