Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is very effective in scar tissue prevention/ reduction because it can be applied in the various stages of most injuries.  In the acute stage, it can be used in the prevention of scar tissue build up or the softening and substantial reduction of scar tissue in the chronic stage.  

What is scar tissue?  
Scar tissue is used to replace or fill-in the tissue that is missing or damaged.  It is not functional tissue.  It is not uniformed or organized in structure as normal tissue is and it will not act like the tissue that it is replacing.  For example, scar tissue located in muscle tissue will not contract like muscular tissue.  

What problems can occur from scar tissue?

1.    Poor circulation
2.    Chronic edema
3.    Inhibited nerve transmission
4.    Greater chance of secondary pathology
5.    Decreased range of motion
6.    Pain
7.    Reddening and itching

How does MLD help prevent scar tissue?
In the acute stage when tissue is damaged, an over abundance of collagen is poured into the area.  Immediate treatment with MLD will normalize the affected area.  Getting early treatment is important in limiting the amount of collagen before it settles into the tissue.
 
The result is an accelerated healing process and a prevention of secondary issues from fibrotic scar tissue.

by Rachel Shiu RMT, MLD Therapist