Scar Tissue Management

Scar Tissue Management

Serving Portland OR | Vancouver WA

From surgeries and acne to cuts and burns, anytime your skin is damaged, a scar will most likely develop. They’re a natural part of the healing process. Although scars are permanent, there are several treatments to make them less noticeable.

Normal fine-line scars

Fine line scars are common after a minor wound or surgery. They generally aren’t painful, but can be itchy for a few months. While they won’t disappear completely, they often fade over time.

Keloid Scars

Keloid scars are a type of raised scar that tend to be larger than the original wound. They can develop after surgery, a burn, or even after getting a body piercing. Keloids can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to develop–and some may continue to grow for years.

Some keloid scars may be itchy, tender, or painful while they’re growing.

Hypertrophic Scars

Hypertrophic scars are a more common form of scar tissue. They’re raised but unlike keloid scars, their size is limited to the damaged skin.

Although doctors aren’t exactly sure what causes hypertrophic scars and keloid scars, they do know that acne, piercings, tattoos, surgery, and burns can cause them.

Researchers also say that people under the age of 30 and those with darker skin are most at risk of developing these raised scars.

Preventing Scars

While you can’t always prevent injuries that lead to scarring, there are some ways to minimize their appearance.

• Keep the wound clean and apply a bandage to keep bacteria out
• Don’t pick the wound
• Keep the wound moist by applying petroleum jelly or silicone scar sheets
• Protect the wound from UV rays, which can cause inflammation and irritation and impact the production of new collagen
• Massage the wound to help promote healthy collagen production

What are my Options for Scar Tissue Management?

While topical creams and gels may help diminish the appearance of new, minor scars, older scars may need more aggressive treatments. Some of your options include:

• ASTYM™: Augmented Soft Tissue Mobilization (ASTYM) involves using plastic tools to break up scar tissue to promote collagen cell regeneration.
• Manual Therapy: manual therapy involves hands-on techniques, including:
  • Cross Friction Massage: using two fingers to massage the scar ensuring the collagen fibers properly align.
  • Myofascial Release: this practice works by relieving tensions in the myofascial network.
• Microcurrent Therapy: this therapy works by sending small electrical impulses into the damaged tissue to promote healing and alleviate pain.

Scar Tissue Management in Portland OR

If you have a post-op surgery scar you want treated or are dealing with a serious scar that’s impacting your movement and causing pain, New Heights Physical Therapy Plus is here for you. We treat a variety of serious scars from total knee replacement surgeries to mastectomy scars, ensuring they heal properly.

We’ll examine the scar and help you pick the best scar tissue treatment solution for you. We have been helping patients in the Portland and Vancouver area for years and we offer morning and late afternoon appointments to fit your schedule.

Back to Conditions Treated by Physical Therapy