Scar management

Scar tissue can be especially problematic in the hands and upper limb. Scars and scar tissue can develop following surgery or burns. Complications can arise with large scars and scar tissue, such as:

• poor cosmetic appearance
• raised, thickened or excessive scarring – known as hypertrophic or keloid scars
• hypersensitivity
• adhesions and tethering to underlying structures
• pain
• itchiness
• decreased mobility due to scar contractures

Hand therapists are specialists at scar management, and can treat scars across the entire body, not just limited to the upper limb. Therapists at Geelong Hand Therapy can use a variety of techniques to flatten, soften, and desensitise scar tissue as well as increase the mobility of the scar and surrounding tissues.