Oncology Scar Tissue Repair and Recovery

Why Scar Treatment?

Many people have surgery as part of their cancer treatment. While surgery is life-saving, it may leave scars, which are a natural expression of the body’s ability to heal. However, they may cause discomfort in many ways. Scars may cause itching, tenderness, pain, sleep disturbance and may also limit the body’s ability to function properly. Some people no longer like the part of their body that is scarred, or may feel it is no longer part of them. Scars may cause other problems, such as anxiety, depression and disruption of daily activities. Some people may develop post-traumatic stress reactions, loss of self-esteem, or feel stigmatised or dislike their own appearance. These reactions are all normal. Any or all of these may have an effect on quality of life.  This is why having a Holistic Ostoeapthic approachh to recovery is recommended. not only will you experience positive physical changes, you will also find that this will help with your emotional recovery through and beyond cancer treatment.

What is Scar Therapy?

ScarWork is a painless, non-invasive light touch therapy. It draws on nearly 30 specialised techniques that can be used to improve the health and feel of scars from surgery or accidents. Developed by Sharon Wheeler in the USA nearly 40 years ago, ScarWork has only recently been introduced into the UK. Lorraine, Registered Osteopath and Scar Specialist, is proud to be in the forefront of making this service available to people living with and beyond cancer in the Cork and surrounding regions.

ScarWork is delivered without oils or creams. Treatment is relaxing and pain free for the patient. After treatment, many patients remark that their scars feel softer. People also say they have less discomfort or pain around their scar or elsewhere in their body. Many find that their ability to move improves and becomes easier. The effects of treatment seem to be long lasting. While a single treatment may be effective, generally a series of treatments is desirable.

ScarWork is suitable for scars of any age – whether from surgery that was recent or that took place a long time ago. ScarWork is not a replacement for conventional treatment and you are expected to continue your usual cancer-related treatments. If you are in doubt, please ask your oncology health professional to advise whether you can have this gentle work on and around your scar.

Who can take part in this service?

This service is available for people who have scars resulting from surgical treatment for any of the following cancer types:

Breast

Colorectal

Gynaecological

Head and neck

Melanoma