ScarWork is the brainchild of Sharon Wheeler, who was originally trained by Ida Rolf. Named after its founder, Dr. Ida P. Rolf, Rolfing® Structural Integration is a form of bodywork that reorganises the connective tissues (called fascia) that cover the entire body. Rolfing’s main aim is to return the body to its optimum structure, via the realignment of these inter-connective tissues that hold the muscles in place. Sharon has been a Rolfer for over 40 years and during this time she developed an approach to working with scars. ScarWork is a therapy which is used to improve feeling and functionality in the scar and surrounding tissues, creating better movement between the layers of skin, fascia (connective tissue) and muscle. Benefits of ScarWork includes: - release tightness – by loosening and releasing tight scar tissue to reduce discomfort - help restricted mobility – by reducing tightness and encouraging mobility between the layers of skin, fascia and muscle to improve range of movement - reduce sensitivity and pain – trapped nerves and irritated scar tissue can be a factor in prolonged discomfort, therapeutic touch may reduce pain and help normalise sensitivity - stimulate and boost healing – scar massage is often recommended by surgeons to promote scar healing after surgery and may help minimise longer term complications - support emotional wellbeing – therapeutic touch can be a powerful way to aid emotional recovery (Source Sharon Wheeler’s ScarWork 2019)
Perineal scars (episiotomy, tears) C-section scars Scars after open abdominal surgeries or laparoscopies Post-mastectomy scars Scars post orthopaedic surgeries