Physical Therapy for Adhesions and Scar Tissue

Adhesions and scar tissue form part of the body’s natural healing process after an injury, surgery, or inflammation. When tissue is damaged, the body produces collagen to repair it, sometimes resulting in dense, fibrous bands that connect tissues that shouldn’t normally be connected. This excessive formation can happen due to surgeries like C-sections, joint replacements, or abdominal surgeries, where internal scar tissue develops. Injuries like muscle tears, sprains, and strains, as well as conditions such as chronic inflammation or infections, can also trigger the development of adhesions. While scar tissue helps in the healing process, it can sometimes lead to restricted movement, pain, and reduced function in the affected area if it forms in excess or binds to surrounding tissues.

PROBLEMS CAUSED BY Adhesions and Scar Tissue

Adhesions and scar tissue can cause many problems that significantly impact the quality of life.

  • Restricted range of motion: where scar tissue limits the movement of muscles, joints, or tendons, making everyday activities such as walking, bending, or reaching difficult and painful. This restriction can lead to stiffness and discomfort, especially during physical activities or prolonged periods of inactivity.
  • Chronic pain: It may result from nerve compression by tight bands of tissue or from the irritation of surrounding structures.
  • In cases where adhesions form internally: such as after abdominal surgery, they can bind organs together, leading to complications like bowel obstructions or impaired organ function, which may require further medical intervention.
  • Adhesions and scar tissue can contribute to post-surgical complications: For example, in women who have undergone pelvic surgery, it may cause pain during intercourse or menstrual irregularities.

How Physical Therapy Can Help WITH Adhesions and Scar Tissue Treatment

Our expert physical therapists use a combination of hands-on techniques and targeted exercises to address adhesions and scar tissue. Some of the key treatments include:

  • Fascial Counterstrain: This specialized therapy works by identifying and relieving areas of restriction, allowing scar tissue and adhesions to soften and become more pliable. It helps restore normal movement, reduce pain, and improve overall function without causing trauma to the tissue.
  • Manual Therapy: Through techniques like deep tissue massage, myofascial release, and scar mobilization, we gently manipulate the tissue to break up adhesions and improve mobility.
  • Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Customized exercises are prescribed to stretch tight tissues and strengthen surrounding muscles, supporting proper movement and reducing strain.
  • Ultrasound Therapy: Ultrasound therapy uses sound waves to stimulate tissue healing and break down scar tissue from the inside.
  • Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization: This advanced technique uses specialized tools to target and release scar tissue, allowing for better movement and function.

Frequently Asked Questions About Adhesions and Scar Tissue:

What is Scar Tissue?

Scar tissue forms as part of the body’s natural healing process after an injury, surgery, or inflammation. It consists of fibrous connective tissue that replaces normal tissue when healing from wounds. Scar tissue can develop externally on the skin or internally, leading to adhesions that may cause discomfort and restricted movement.

What Causes Scar Tissue to Form?

Scar tissue forms due to injuries, surgical incisions, burns, infections, or chronic inflammation. Internally, adhesions can develop after surgery or trauma, causing tissues and organs to stick together, leading to pain and restricted movement. Adhesions and scar tissue treatment can help restore mobility and reduce discomfort.

What Are the Types of Scar Tissue?

  • Hypertrophic Scars – Raised, red scars that remain within the wound boundary.
  • Keloid Scars – Thick, overgrown scar tissue extending beyond the wound.
  • Contracture Scars – Tightened tissue often resulting from burns.
  • Atrophic Scars – Depressed scars, such as acne or surgical scars.
  • Internal Scar Tissue (Adhesions) – Fibrous bands forming between tissues and organs, often causing pain and mobility issues.

 

How to Heal Internal Scar Tissue Naturally

Natural methods for reducing scar tissue and adhesions include:

  • Scar massage – Breaks up scar tissue and improves circulation.
  • Exercise & stretching – Enhances flexibility, collagen alignment, and prevents overgrowth.
  • Active-Release Therapy (ART) – Applies tension to adhesions while moving to restore mobility.
  • Hydration & nutrition – Supports tissue repair and elasticity.
  • Herbal remedies – Certain supplements aid scar healing.

Can You Break Up Scar Tissue?

Yes, breaking up scar tissue is possible through various treatments, such as:

  • Scar massage to soften and mobilize tissue.
  • Scar tissue therapy using techniques like myofascial release.
  • Adhesions treatment with physical therapy, including stretching and manual therapy.
  • Ultrasound therapy to break down dense tissue.

What Does Internal Scar Tissue Feel Like?

Internal scar tissue can feel tight, stiff, or pulling. It may cause pain, restricted movement, or discomfort during certain activities. Adhesions can lead to chronic scar tissue pain, requiring specialized scar tissue therapy.

How to Treat Scar Tissue?

Scar tissue treatment with physical therapy is one of the most effective approaches. Methods include:

  • Scar massage to improve mobility and circulation.
  • Breaking up scar tissue with myofascial release.
  • Adhesions physical therapy to stretch and mobilize affected areas.
  • Scar removal treatment through laser therapy or other advanced techniques.

Consulting a specialist in physical therapy can help alleviate pain and restore function for comprehensive scar tissue treatment and adhesion therapy.

Start Your Journey to Recovery

At our clinic, we customize each treatment plan to address your specific needs, whether you are recovering from surgery, an injury, or managing chronic pain. Our goal is to restore your quality of life by enhancing mobility and alleviating pain, helping you return to the activities you enjoy.