McLoughlin Scar Tissue Release

Why choose MSTR?

Do you have a scar which is sapping your confidence or restricting your range of movement?

You may have a scar as a result of surgery, from a wound, a skin graft or from burns. All of these types of scarring can be considered. While a minimum of 8 weeks is required post-surgery before a scar can be worked on, no scar is too old to be considered. There are very few reasons a scar may not be worked on and these will be made clear to you before you book your first appointment.

But it’s not just visible scars which can benefit from this technique – any area of restricted tissue might benefit! Conditions such as plantar fasciitis, axillary web syndrome, sports injuries such as those to the hamstring, quadriceps or biceps and pectoral tears as well as any joints that seem restricted in their range of movement may also potentially see positive results from its application.

Sessions vary in length depending on the size of the scar and the client’s response to the therapy. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment and each client’s history will be taken into careful consideration when determining the best approach.

What is MSTR?

McLoughlin Scar Tissue Release (MSTR) is a form of manual scar therapy. It is an extremely gentle method developed by therapist Alastair McLoughlin who, originally trained as a remedial massage therapist, qualified later as a Bowen therapist and has been made a Life Member of the Bowen Association (UK) as a result of his work.

How does MSTR work?

MSTR aims to improve the appearance of your scar, improve sensation, improve the flow of blood and lymph, improve your range of movement if restricted by the scar tissue and potentially increase your overall sense of wellbeing. This is done through specific movements with the fingers or thumbs carried out in a particular pattern.

What can I expect?

Before I even look at your scar, I will ask you some questions around the scar formation and your feelings about the scar. Sometimes people find emotions come to the surface unexpectedly and if you do not want to continue during that session, you have the option to ask me to stop working at any point.

Depending on the location of your scar, you may choose to sit or lie in a comfortable, relaxed position. I will need the area of the scar to be exposed but there will be no need for you to undress. If you do need to remove clothing, you can expect that your modesty will be preserved using a blanket or towel as appropriate.

I may measure your scar and, with your permission, will palpate the area in order to assess the nature of the scarring. Once we have decided on the best way forward, I will begin working on your scar, checking in with you that the pressure is not too intense, and ensuring that you are comfortable with the process.

Once the therapy session is complete, I will reassess the scar as well as giving you the opportunity to check in with your own body. At this point we will discuss further sessions as appropriate.

If you’d like to discuss your condition further then get in touch to discover how McLoughlin Scar Tissue Release might be of benefit.