Scar tissue release therapy is a non-invasive, light touch technique to relieve adhesions & restrictions caused by scar tissue. This technique is suitable for scars older than 4 weeks, as long as they are completely healed.

Why scars can be problematic

Scars are a vastly overlooked source of physiological & bio-mechanical disfunction & a potential trigger for emotional trauma (yes, that includes dogs!). The body forms scar tissue as a natural response to trauma when the skin is lacerated or punctured either by accident or surgery. During the repair process the body lays down thick layers of densely packed collagen fibres through which blood circulation, oxygenation & lymphatic flow are restricted.

This thickened fibrous mass causes a dragging or pulling on the surrounding healthy tissues, which over time can lead to the body setting up compensatory patterns of movement, often resulting in pain & long-standing issues that don’t resolve with manual therapies unless the scar tissue is addressed. Furthermore the severing of delicate nerve tissue often results in abnormal sensation of not only the scar, but the surrounding tissue also.

Some of the issues scars can cause include;

• numbness
• itching
• tingling
• pain
• burning sensation
• sensation of intense cold
• hypersensitivity
• reduced range of movement
• loss of flexibility
• postural distortion
• weakened muscles
• emotional distress

Benefits of McLoughlin Scar Tissue Release for dogs

This gentle hands-on therapy aims to aid greater blood flow & lymphatic drainage in post trauma or post-surgery scars, allowing for the area to become smoother & less problematic. Human clients often find that treatment of a scar resolves pain or restrictions they have been experiencing in other parts of their body. Some even find a shift in their perception & acceptance of the events that gave them the scar – we can only assume that MSTR may have the same effect with dogs, but must rely on observations of changes in mood & behaviour to know if this has been the case.

Releasing scar tissue using MSTR can result in;

• reduction in pain
• lumps/bumps/ridges/dips becoming smoother
• increased range of movement
• restored sensation /reduction in numbness or sensation of hot/ cold
• increased blood flow & oxygenation to the area
• increased lymphatic drainage reducing swelling and redness
• a release of emotion (especially if the scar was acquired in a traumatic or emergency situation)

Some common scars your dog have that could benefit from scar tissue release include:

• neuter scars
• c-section scars
• spinal surgery scars
• scars from surgery
• scars from wounds
• scar tissue from muscle/tendon/ligament tears

MSTR for dogs is suitable for most scars but there may be occasions where it may not be appropriate. If this is the case I may need to have a discussion with your vet 1^st before booking an appointment. To assess the suitability of MSTR for your dog you can schedule a call with me.

Your dog’s MSTR session

During an MSTR session you will be required to remain present without distractions throughout. It’s important that you are able to observe any responses that take place.

Each session is dog lead – your dog will dictate the pace & will indicate when they need breaks & for how long. Your dog will never be forced to accept the bodywork if they are clearly indicating that they have had enough or that they don’t want it. It is not uncommon for a dog to accept only a small amount of bodywork on a 1^st session but the impact should not be underestimated – each dog needs time to feel safe & trust the practitioner.