How to Reduce the Appearance of a Scar by Using Massage Techniques
Many people suffer sports injuries and end up either receiving a scar directly from the injury, or from a surgical procedure performed to correct the injury. Although the scars tend to fade over time, some people find them unsightly, and would like to try and make them less obvious. This may be possible through using some massage techniques. Have a quick look at the two stages a scar goes through, before examining some techniques to help fade the scar.
Immature And Mature Scars
The phase following the completion of the healing of the wound is known as the immature stage. Some small amounts of healing may still occur for up to twelve months after the wound has closed. It is when no scar tissue is produced at all that the scar is deemed mature. Fortunately, massages work on both mature and immature scars.
Some Techniques
Some of the most effective techniques which are popularly used to reduce the appearance of a scar are listed below.
Lubricated Massage
There are some products that can be purchased that can be massaged into the scar to help reduce its appearance. In particular, vitamin E is good for helping to keep the scar moist, preventing it from drying out and the chance of re-opening. Regularly massage the scar area with vitamin E to see a reduced visibility of the scar.
Manual Manipulation
This can be an effective massage technique for draining the scar area of blood, and promoting increased blood flow to the area. It involves manipulating the scar area with the fingers, making a circular motion around the scar. Next, the areas above and below the scar are manipulated in the same way. Lastly, the skin above and below the scar is stretched firmly. These motions help to drain the area around the scar. Done regularly, this can help to make a scar less conspicuous.
Deep Tissue
Only a qualified person, such as a sports chiropractor, will be able to administer a proper deep tissue massage to help with the scar. However, it is possible to complete paid tuition to learn the technique for yourself. It is an intricate massage, which can give very effective results. It can be quite painful, as the massage can dislodge any adhesion that have built up around the scar.
The adhesion can make the scar stand out more. Rupturing and breaking down these adhesions helps significantly to reduce the appearance of the scar, but the actual breaking down of them can be quite painful. This technique works well on mature scars.
In the majority of cases, a sports chiropractor will use a combination of techniques and methods to reduce and fade a scar to their customers' satisfaction. Learn more about your options by contacting resources like Success Chiropractic.