MSTR

McLoughlin Scar Tissue Release Technique

MSTR is a gentle and profoundly effective, natural way of working on scar tissue. It can help the scar and surrounding areas rapidly return to a more normal state.

MSTR is applied using gentle pressure moves with fingertips. These purposeful and focused moves help to gently free the restrictions in the scar tissue. No force is involved in any way and there is no use of chemicals, oils or lotions.

This scar work is not massage, deep friction work, fascial release or bowen. It is a unique method that focuses solely on scar tissue and works with the collagen fibres in the skin.

It is never too late to work on scar tissue.

scar tissue symptoms

  • Numbness
  • Itching
  • Tingling
  • Pain
  • Burning
  • Feeling intense cold
  • Hypersensitivity
  • Reduced range of movement
  • Loss of flexibility
  • Postural distortion
  • Weakened muscles
  • Emotional distress

likely improvements

  • Reduction in pain
  • A change in colour from white to pink
  • Lumps, bumps, ridges and dips becoming smoother
  • Increased movement and motion
  • Restored sensation and a reduction in numbness and the sensation of hot or cold
  • An increased blood flow and therefore oxygen 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)

FAQ

What is scar tissue?

The body forms scar tissue as a natural and essential response to heal a wound, whether that be accidental (i.e. injury) or intentional (i.e. surgery). Collagen is laid down which creates a thick fibrous non-elastic tissue which reduces proper circulation through that area. 

This new scar tissue will create tension and likely have a pulling effect on the surrounding muscles and joints. This will be experienced as a reduction of movement, restricted motion and often referred pain somewhere else in the body.

How does it impact the body?

The effects of a scar on the body should not be underestimated. The impact of scar tissue extends far beyond the area of the scar and original injury.

The ‘knock on effects’ to other areas in the body depend on the location of the scar and can be far reaching. As an example, abdominal surgery may create a dragging sensation through the body, a feeling that your head is being pulled forwards and lower back pain. This will in turn affect the movement of the upper back, shoulders and neck which may in turn cause headaches.

What if my scar is years old?

Yes, this technique may benefit scar tissue no matter how long you have it, even if it is decades old.

How long should I wait before treatMENT?

The scar must be well healed before any form of treatment. As a minimum, at least 6 weeks should be left between the date of the cause of the scar and the first treatment.

 

Can it be used on scars with screws, plates or implants?

Yes, MSTR can be used on scars that have plates, pins, screws and rods. It can also be used on the scar from breast implant surgery as the technique is not used directly over the implant.

 

Are there any scars that cannot be treated with MSTR?

Scars where surgical mesh has been used cannot be treated with McLoughin Scar Tissue Release Technique.

What if I have a strong emotional connection linked to my scar?

Every scar is caused by some kind of trauma. Some scars may have been acquired in distressing circumstances or be associated with specific events or memories. In these situations, it is recommended that MSTR is the only therapy applied on that day.

Releasing the scar tissue can sometimes cause a rush of emotions, often in the form of tears, memory recall or laughing. This is part of the process of releasing your scar and even though it can be upsetting, it is a positive thing. You are in complete control of the session and can ask for treatment to stop at any time.

Treatment of scar tissue is absolutely vital

Treatment is targeted, specific and tailored to suit your body at the time.