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Post-operative scars are a common consequence of surgical procedures. While scars are a natural part of the body's healing process, they can sometimes cause discomfort, pain, and even affect the connective tissue in the body. Acupuncture can help alleviate the physical and emotional burden of post-operative scars.
UNDERSTANDING POST-OPERATIVE SCARS
When the skin is injured during surgery, the body initiates a natural healing process. Fibrous tissue called collagen is produced to repair the wound, resulting in a scar. The appearance and texture of the scar can vary depending on factors like genetics, surgical technique, and post-operative care.
Post-operative scars can be categorized into two primary types:
1. HYPERTROPHIC SCARS:
These scars are raised and red, often forming within the boundaries of the original wound. Hypertrophic scars can be itchy and cause discomfort.
2. KELOID SCARS:
Keloids are more severe than hypertrophic scars and extend beyond the wound's original borders. They can be painful and are often cosmetically bothersome.
THE ROLE OF ACUPUNCTURE
In Japanese Acupuncture, treating scars are a big part of our acupuncture treatment because we see them as a disruption of qi (pronounced Chi) and can have an effect on other areas of the body.
Here's how acupuncture can benefit those dealing with post-operative scars:
1. PAIN MANAGEMENT:
Post-operative scars can be painful, especially during the healing process. Acupuncture has been shown to stimulate the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, which can help alleviate scar tissue pain.
2. IMPROVED BLOOD CIRCULATION:
Acupuncture promotes better blood circulation, which can aid in the healing process. Improved blood flow to the scar tissue can help reduce inflammation and encourage the formation of healthier, less noticeable scars. Also, often the scar becomes numb and acupuncture helps bring sensation back into the area.
3. SCAR SOFTENING:
Acupuncture can help soften and relax scar tissue, making it more pliable and less prone to tightness or adhesion. This can be particularly beneficial for scars in areas with a lot of movement, such as joints.
4. REDUCED ITCHING AND IRRITATION:
Itchy scars can be a significant source of discomfort. Acupuncture may help reduce itching and irritation by calming the nerves in the scar tissue.
5. EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING:
Scars, especially when they are prominent, can affect one's self-esteem and body image. Acupuncture treatments not only have a calming effect on the mind by reducing anxiety, but can reduce the appearance of the scar itself.
HOW ACUPUNCTURE FOR SCARS WORKS
Acupuncture for scar management involves the following:
1. DIODE RING/CHAIN TREATMENT:
I usually don’t needle fresh scars, but rather use a topical treatment with diode rings or a diode chain. This has a great effect when moving scar tissue both on the surface and underneath the scar. Diodes promote the healing in areas of stressed, inflamed or injured tissue, lymph and blood vessels. It is a unique treatment based in Japanese Acupuncture.
2. NEEDLE INSERTION:
Fine acupuncture needles are gently inserted into the selected points. This process is generally painless, and many patients find it relaxing. I will often needle the ends of a scar or cross fiber with a special technique that loosens the entire length of the scar. This is a very superficial treatment and is rarely painful.
3. FREQUENCY OF SESSIONS:
The frequency of acupuncture sessions for scar management varies from person to person and depends on the scar's severity. Many people benefit from regular sessions over several weeks or months.
One woman I treated today, whose scar was still very numb, was treated once with a diode chain and electric stimulation, and by the end of the session, her numbness there had gone.
Acupuncture is a non-invasive and generally safe complementary therapy that can offer relief to individuals dealing with post-operative scars. While it may not completely eliminate scars, it can significantly improve their appearance, reduce discomfort, and enhance overall well-being.