Scars are extremely common, with most individuals carrying scars from caesareans/lateral incisions, appendectomies, childhood fractures, or even vaccinations. While some superficial scars don’t cause any issues, problems can occur due to changes in circulation and tissue structure.
In particular, scar contractures, where the skin “shrinks” around an old wound, can cause tightness and restriction in movement.1 While scars may appear only skin deep, tissue and organs beneath the area can also be affected, regardless of the size of the surface mark.
The aim of scar treatment in Chinese Medicine is to restore proper circulation and movement of ‘qi’ around the location of the scar, loosening up tense tissue and allowing energy to flow properly.
The most common Chinese medicine treatment for scar tissue problems is acupuncture. The careful placement of fine needles in key areas can relieve tension and pain through improving circulation in undernourished tissue.
A similar treatment often used to reduce scar tissue is skin needling or micro-needling, where a small device with hundreds of tiny needles is rolled across the skin.2 However with acupuncture, the practitioner will instead place a small number of needles in carefully chosen points to relieve tension in the area.
Chinese Medicine practitioners are very aware of the potential pain and discomfort which can be caused by scar tissue, and will ask you during an initial appointment about your medical history, including injuries and past surgeries. They will further assess any scars you may have, and will consider these in a recommended treatment plan.
If you are experiencing pain or limited mobility due to old scar tissue, consider visiting a Chinese Medicine practitioner to discuss your treatment options.
References
- Scars. (2017). National Health Service. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/scars/.
- Treatment | Scars. (2017). National Health Service. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/scars/treatment.