Role of Massage on the Management of Hypertrophic Scar: Review

Abstract

Nonsurgical techniques to help prevent and treat abnormal scars include laser therapy, intralesional agents, cryotherapy, radiation, pressure therapy, occlusive dressings, topical agents, and scar massage. Some surgeons recommend scar massage during wound healing to improve aesthetic outcome. There is a lack of consistency regarding when to initiate treatment, technique, frequency, and duration of therapy. The aim of this review article was to summarize the published literature regarding the use of scar massage and to propose ways to integrate this therapy into the practice of physical therapy in the management of scar.