How to massage a c-section scar
C-section scar massage can be a great way to improve the mobility and appearance of your scar.
You can begin gentle massage after your 6-week check-up, or sooner if your health care practitioner feels it is appropriate. Initially, the scar may be quite tender, red, and painful and it may be best to leave the actual scar itself and work the tissues above and below it. As the scar becomes less tender, you can begin work on the scar itself.
Also know that it’s never too late to start working on your c-section scar. Research shows that massage can be helpful even if scars have been left for many months or years. Scars can change throughout our lifetime. Sometimes they just need a bit of help to do it.
Begin by washing your hands. If your scar is still fairly new, you may wish to wash your scar with mild soap and water too before you start. Many people find that using a fragrance-free oil or body-lotion helps with massaging the scar.
Start with some nice relaxed breathing. Allow your breath to move through your lower ribs, abdomen and pelvis. If you don’t feel comfortable touching the scar directly, it’s okay to start above or below the scar.
Massage in a Circular Motion
Make circular motions with your fingertips over the tissue above and below the scar and over the scar itself. Begin gently and gradually increase pressure. Note that it’s normal to feel a bit of discomfort, but it doesn’t need to hurt. Scars are not like muscles and fairly gentle pressure can create a lot of change. Scars are not like muscle and don’t need a lot of force to release. Massage the scar for a couple of minutes. Try to keep your movements smooth and controlled. You may wish to concentrate on areas that are stiffer or bumpy to touch.
Horizontal Strokes
Start at one end of the scar and stroke in a straight line, following the line of the scar. You may wish to start just above the scar if your scar is more sensitive and then bring your fingers down on to the scar and then sweep a line below the scar. Repeat this motion numerous times, increasing the pressure gradually as your scar becomes less sensitive. Then repeat this action, this time in a vertical direction, starting at one end of the scar and slowly moving to the opposite end
Scar Rolling Technique
To perform the scar rolling technique, use your thumb and index finger to gently lift the skin on either side of the scar. Roll the skin back and forth, moving along the length of the scar. This technique helps release tension and improve the mobility of the scar tissue. Perform the rolling motion for a few minutes each day, gradually increasing the duration as tolerated.
Cross Friction Massage
Cross friction massage focuses on specific scar tissue locations that may feel particularly stiff or thick. Apply mild pressure across the scar with your fingertips or the pad of your thumb, going perpendicular to (horizontal or across) the scar line. This type of massage may aid in the breakdown of adhesions and promote better scar alignment. It’s particularly helpful in parts of the scar that are particularly firm or restricted
Get a professional to massage your scar
If you’re struggling to massage your own scar, it’s okay to ask for help. Find someone who has experience with managing caesarian scars. At Pivot Osteopathy we can work on your scar or show you how to use these techniques. We can also use fascial cupping techniques, which have been shown to improve c-section scar tissue.
If you have any questions our team is here to help
Disclaimer: This blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no practitioner/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this blog or materials linked from this blog is at the user's own risk. The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions.