What is ScarWork and scar treatment?
ScarWork was developed by Sharon Wheeler, an American Structural Integrator. It is a specialized manual (hands-on) treatment, which focuses specifically on scar tissue, fibrosis, adhesions and changes in the health of the tissue, for example as a result of an accident, trauma, surgery and/or radiotherapy.
The manual treatment is a non-invasive and painless treatment of the scar itself and the surroundings of the scar. The main goal of this treatment is not so much focused on the cosmetic and external aspects of the scar, although this can be positively influenced. The treatment focuses in particular on relieving pain and limitations due to the scar, the mobility of the scar and the degree of stiffness and nerve function.
ScarWork therapy focuses on the skin and underlying tissue, the fascia, and any adhesions around the scar. Scar tissue is often stiffer than non-scar tissue, but we can influence, mobilize and soften this in many cases. Complaints such as tightness of the scar and sensitivity issues can also change.
Not all clients will notice a visual change to the scar, but usually, the scar will feel softer, smoother and looser after treatment and there is often an improved range of motion in the joints surrounding the scar. Clients regularly report changes in the entire body, this can be physical or emotional.
Unlike other scar therapies, the treatment with this ScarWork method is rarely painful. Treatment is always delivered within the client's comfort level and it is common for clients to notice gradual changes after each session. Treatments are offered with a frequency of 1x per 1-4 weeks. This depends on how old the scar is, the presentation of the scar and the goals we set within the treatment.
ScarWork therapy can be utilised in case of a "fresh scar" as well as for a scar that is several decades old. Our body is constantly renewing cells, so even old scar tissue can respond to stimulation with ScarWork therapy. The treatment is only started when the scar has closed and the skin has recovered.
Type of scars
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Scars created after an accident
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Scars in the abdomen, e.g. caesarean sections, bowel operations / bowel resections, abdominoplasty
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Scars at the breast area, such as a breast augmentation / breast reduction, but also a mastectomy, lumpectomy, breast reconstruction scars (TUG, DIEP, TRAM, LAT, Flap), also after heart surgery
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Scars as a result of keyhole surgery of the joint or joint replacement surgery (eg knee, hip and shoulder), also spinal surgery, for example after a herniation of the disc (e.g. lumbar, cervical)
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Various operations for cancer, removal of carcinoma or melanoma
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Childhood trauma or surgery.
What can you expect?
The first appointment will take approximately 60 minutes. In this appointment we will discuss your medical history and any symptoms you may have as a result of your scar, such as itching, tightness, pain or reduced mobility. We will clarify the goals for treatment, whether that is optimal recovery or addressing a specific problem.
During this first appointment, we will first examine and assess the scar, movement of adjacent joints and tissue, when appropriate. In this first appointment, a start is made with ScarWork and advice is given where possible
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ScarWork starts in the upper layers of the tissue, stimulating the dermis and superficial fascia before getting to the deeper tissues. The treatment is generally perceived as comfortable and non-painful. At the end of this session, we will discuss the treatment plan and make further agreements.
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Reimbursement of ScarWork and location of sessions
ScarWork Therapy treatments currently fall under physiotherapeutic treatment, non-contracted physiotherapy.
The prices as in the rate list will be used, and you will receive an invoice for this. If you have supplementary insurance for physiotherapy, you can declare this consultation to your insurer, and you canpossibly get a part of this back from your insurer. For more information about what reimbursement you may receive for this, you can contact your own insurer.
When you have questions about ScarWork Therapy, or whether this would be suitable for you,
please feel free to contact me.
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