ScarWork: A Gentle Approach to Healing Scar Tissue & Restoring Movement
What is ScarWork?
ScarWork is a gentle, hands-on therapy designed to help scars soften, integrate, and restore movement. Unlike traditional methods that attempt to “break up” scar tissue with force, ScarWork uses a light, non-invasive touch to encourage the body to release tension naturally.
Pioneered by Sharon Wheeler, ScarWork is rooted in Structural Integration principles. It addresses how scars impact not only the skin but also deeper layers of fascia, muscle, and organ function.
How Scars Affect the Body
Scar tissue doesn’t just remain in one place—it can create restrictions that impact movement, posture, and nerve function. Some common issues caused by scars include:
Restricted movement – difficulty stretching, reaching, or bending.
Numbness or hypersensitivity – scars that feel “dead” or overly sensitive.
Tightness and pulling sensations – discomfort around the affected area.
Adhesions – connections between tissues that weren’t originally joined.
Circulatory and lymphatic restrictions – which can slow healing and increase swelling.
ScarWork helps alleviate these issues by working with the body instead of against it, allowing scars to reintegrate without forceful manipulation.
Who Can Benefit from ScarWork?
ScarWork is effective for a variety of scars, including:
Surgical scars – C-sections, mastectomies, joint replacements, thyroid surgeries.
Burn scars & skin grafts – helping to improve mobility and reduce discomfort.
Trauma scars – from accidents, deep cuts, or wounds.
Abdominal & pelvic scars – appendectomy, hernia, hysterectomy.
Adhesions – deeper scarring that impacts organ function and movement.
Through light, responsive touch, ScarWork helps restore mobility, sensation, and ease, allowing you to move more freely and feel more connected to your body.
Why Gentle Touch Works Best
Unlike deep tissue massage or scraping techniques that attempt to “break apart” scar tissue, ScarWork is effective because it:
Works with the body’s natural healing process, respecting the delicate nature of scar tissue.
Uses light touch to signal safety to the nervous system, reducing the body’s protective guarding response.
Encourages mobility between tissue layers, reintegrating scars into the body’s natural movement.
Reduces chronic tension, helping the body release unnecessary holding patterns.
What to Expect in a ScarWork Session
ScarWork sessions are gentle, comfortable, and pain-free. During your session:
You’ll remain fully clothed or wear comfortable attire like gym shorts and a tank top.
We’ll use light, precise techniques such as “feather dusting” or “playing the piano” to explore and soften scar tissue.
The work often feels subtle, yet clients frequently notice improved mobility and sensation afterward.
ScarWork is suitable for both new and old scars and can complement other forms of bodywork or rehabilitation.
Book an Appointment
If you have a scar that feels tight, numb, or restrictive, ScarWork may help. Sessions are available at Resilience Occupational Therapy in Montpelier, VT.
Your scars are part of your story—but they don’t have to limit you. ScarWork can help you move more freely, feel more at ease, and reconnect with your body. Reach out today to see how this gentle therapy can support your healing journey.