Aromatherapy

An Aromatherapy massage at ReTreat uses essential oils of aromatic trees, plants and flowers together with massage to promote health of the body and serenity of the mind. Oils are carefully selected and blended according to each person’s individual needs. Aromatherapy is holistic (works with the whole body); its aim is to achieve balance or stability and help to promote good health and vitality by stimulating the body to heal itself and reduce stress (which is often a cause of many illnesses). It works on both the body and the mind.

Massage is an excellent way of applying the oils to the body and increases the healing potential of aromatherapy.

How does Aromatherapy work?

Many oils also have antibacterial, antiseptic, antifungal, and antiviral qualities. The massage techniques used are important in helping the oils to be absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream where they are then transported to all of the body systems assisting the body’s natural ability to regulate and maintain itself on many levels.

Aromatherapy can be beneficial for many conditions, including;

• Muscular pains and injuries
• Arthritis
• Digestive disorders
• Mental fatigue
• Sleeping problems
• Asthma
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Migraines and headaches
• Fertility problems
• Menstrual disorders, such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• Hormonal imbalances
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Depression

What does an Aromatherapy treatment involve?

A typical treatment is 60 minutes long and begins with a consultation about your health and lifestyle.

During this consultation we will discuss any physical or emotional issues you may have and what you would like to achieve from the session. Essential oils will then be selected. Privately you will be asked to undress (but remain wearing pants/knickers) and to position yourself under towels/sheet on the massage couch. I will only re-enter the room when you are comfortable and covered. The massage routine will vary depending on your needs but will include a combination of massage of the back, legs, arms, stomach, chest, head, face and scalp.

How will I feel after my treatment?

Most people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment. You may even feel sleepy.

Occasionally, people feel nauseous, anxious, or tearful, but this is only temporary and is considered to be part of the healing process.

Precautions

Aromatherapy is not appropriate if you have any of the following:

• High Fever
• Infectious diseases
• Contagious skin disorders
• Early pregnancy (less than 16 weeks)
• Unstable pregnancy
• Thrombosis
• Uncontrolled high or low blood pressure
• Undiagnosed lumps

If you're pregnant, talk with your doctor first and contact me. I am happy to massage pregnant ladies 16 weeks plus.

Be sure to give me a complete and accurate health history. I may ask you to get written permission from your doctor if I have any concerns.

I am also able to offer an adapted version of Aromatherapy, suitable for clients who need a much gentler massage, such as elderly people, and those who may be in frail health.

Reflexology

Reflexology at ReTreat involves working on the feet to treat the whole person - mind, body and spirit. It helps to promote a state of relaxation and balance, which will then encourage the body’s own natural healing abilities. Reflexology is a popular alternative therapy. It promotes relaxation, improves circulation, reduces pain, soothes tired feet and encourages overall healing.

It is based on the principle that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands which are believed to correspond to all organs and parts of the body.

Reflexology improves circulation and aids the elimination of the body’s cellular waste and encourages the body to heal itself at its own pace. Muscles held in a state of tension as a protective device begin to relax, digestive juices begin to flow more easily, breathing becomes deeper and the circulation of blood and lymph improves.

Reflexology is a gentle therapy, which encourages the body to work naturally to restore its own healthy balance.

Reflexology is suitable for all ages and can be effective during pregnancy and when trying to conceive.

How does Reflexology work?

The underlying theory behind Reflexology is that there are "reflex" areas on the feet and hands that correspond to specific organs, glands and other parts of the body. For example:

• the tips of the toes reflect the head
• the heart and chest are around the ball of the foot
• the liver, pancreas and kidney are in the arch of the foot
• low back and intestines are towards the heel

Practitioners believe that applying pressure to these reflex areas can promote health in the corresponding organs through energetic pathways. A scientific explanation is that the pressure may send signals that balance the nervous system or release chemicals such as endorphins that reduce pain and stress.

Reflexology can be beneficial for many conditions, including;

• Stress
• Anxiety
• Back pain
• Migraines and headaches
• Fertility problems
• Sleep disorders
• Menstrual disorders, such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• Hormonal imbalances
• Improving blood and lymphatic circulations
• Digestive disorders
• Arthritis
• Asthma
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Depression
• Aiding relaxation
• Giving a feeling of well-being
• Rebalancing the whole system, thereby restoring homeostasis

What does a Reflexology treatment involve?

A typical treatment is 60 minutes long and begins with a consultation about your health and lifestyle.

During this consultation your feet will be soaked in a warm and soothing foot bath. You will sit comfortably in a reclining chair or on a massage table. Apart from removing your shoes and socks you remain fully clothed. I will then stimulate various points of your feet to identify areas of tenderness or tension. This is then followed by me applying pressure from your toes to the heel and at the front of your foot according to your comfort. Lotion, wax, talc or oil may be used. I will finish with a relaxing foot and lower leg massage.

How will I feel after my treatment?

Most people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment. You may even feel sleepy.

Occasionally, people feel nauseous, anxious, or tearful, but this is only temporary and is considered to be part of the healing process.

Precautions

Reflexology is not appropriate if you have any of the following:

• High Fever
• Infectious diseases
• Contagious skin disorders
• Early pregnancy (less than 16 weeks)
• Unstable pregnancy
• Thrombosis

If you're pregnant, talk with your doctor first and contact me. I am happy to massage pregnant ladies 16 weeks plus.

Be sure to give me a complete and accurate health history. If you have foot ulcers, injury, or blood vessel disease such as blood clots, consult your doctor before having Reflexology. I may ask you to get written permission from your doctor if I have any concerns.

I am also able to offer an adapted version of Reflexology, suitable for clients who need a much gentler massage, such as elderly people, and those who may be in frail health.

Body Massage

Body Massage at ReTreat is a combination of massage techniques to suit your needs. The working of superficial and deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue using various techniques, to enhance function, aid in the healing process, and promote relaxation and well-being.

Working deeply does not necessarily mean applying lots of pressure. A light touch can also affect the body/mind very deeply. The techniques used in deep tissue massage are also applied more slowly; this is to avoid causing the recipient any pain when working deeply into the muscle and connective tissue as well as allowing the nervous system to integrate the work.

How does Body Massage work?

It soothes aches and pains, relaxes the mind and purifies the body. It is particularly effective at alleviating stress, and helps to promote feelings of relaxation and well-being.

Body Massage can be beneficial for many reasons, as it;

• Releases deep muscular tension
• Realigns muscles and fascia
• Improves posture and breaks poor postural habits
• Clears energy pathways within the body
• Releases emotional tension and stress
• Relieves pain and increases vitality
• Relieves muscular pains and injuries
• Reduces mental fatigue

What does a Body Massage treatment involve?

A typical treatment is 60 minutes long and begins with a consultation about your health and lifestyle.

During this consultation I will discuss any physical or emotional issues you may have and what you would like to achieve from the session. Areas to concentrate on will be decided. Privately you will be asked to undress (but remain wearing pants/knickers) and to position yourself under towels/sheet on the massage couch. I will only re-enter the room when you are comfortable and covered. The massage routine will vary depending on your needs but will include a combination of massage of the back, legs, arms, stomach, chest, head, face and scalp.

How will I feel after my treatment?

Most people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment. You may even feel sleepy.

Occasionally, people feel nauseous, anxious, or tearful, but this is only temporary and is considered to be part of the healing process.

Precautions

Body Massage is not appropriate if you have any of the following:

• High Fever
• Infectious diseases
• Contagious skin disorders
• Early pregnancy (less than 16 weeks)
• Unstable pregnancy
• Thrombosis
• Uncontrolled high or low blood pressure
• Undiagnosed lumps

If you're pregnant, talk with your doctor first and contact me. I am happy to massage pregnant ladies 16 weeks plus.

Be sure to give me a complete and accurate health history. I may ask you to get written permission from your doctor if I have any concerns.

I am also able to offer an adapted version of Body Massage, suitable for clients who need a much gentler massage, such as elderly people, and those who may be in frail health.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep Tissue Massage at ReTreat is a full body massage of the firmest pressure. It is especially helpful for chronically tense and contracted areas such as stiff necks/shoulders, lower back tightness, and tired, stressed legs.

How does Deep Tissue Massage work?

Deep Tissue Massage focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscle.

The movement is slow and pressure is deep and concentrated on areas of tension and pain.

Deep Tissue Massage can be beneficial for many reasons, as it;

• Releases deep muscular tension
• Realigns muscles and fascia
• Increases joint mobility and decrease inflammation
• Restores range of movements to stiff joints
• Improves muscle tone and balance, reducing the physical stress placed on bones and joints
• Increases blood circulation bringing more oxygen and nutrients into the muscle
• Promotes rapid removal of toxins and waste products from the muscles
• Helps reduce oedema
• Strengthens the immune system
• Releases emotional tension
• Reduces stress
• Helps promote relaxation
• Alleviates mild postural deformities

What does a Deep Tissue Massage treatment involve?

A typical treatment is 60 minutes long and begins with a consultation about your health and lifestyle.

During this consultation I will discuss any physical or emotional issues you may have and what you would like to achieve from the session. Specific areas to work on will be discussed. Privately you will be asked to undress (but remain wearing pants/knickers) and to position yourself under towels/sheet on the massage couch. I will only re-enter the room when you are comfortable and covered. The massage routine will vary depending on your needs but will include a combination of massage of the back, legs, arms, stomach, chest, head, face and scalp.

I will use fingertips, knuckles, hands, elbows and forearms during the massage.

How will I feel after my treatment?

Most people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment. You may even feel sleepy. You may feel some tenderness after this treatment and you are strongly advised to drink lots of water to flush away waste from the tissues.

Occasionally, people feel nauseous, anxious, or tearful, but this is only temporary and is considered to be part of the healing process.

Precautions

Deep Tissue Massage is not appropriate if you have any of the following:

• High Fever
• Infectious diseases
• Contagious skin disorders
• Pregnancy
• Thrombosis
• Uncontrolled high or low blood pressure
• Undiagnosed lumps
• Acute inflammation
• Bone and joint injuries
• Open wounds
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Varicose veins
• Tumour
• Muscle rupture and tendon rupture
• Scleroderma
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis

Be sure to give me a complete and accurate health history. I may ask you to get written permission from your doctor if I have any concerns.

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Head, Back and Shoulder Massage

A Head, Back and Shoulder Massage at ReTreat relieves tension on the head, back and shoulders. The working of superficial and deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue using various techniques, to enhance function, aid in the healing process, and promote relaxation and well-being.

How does Head, Back and Shoulder Massage work?

It soothes aches and pains of the head, back and shoulders, relaxes the mind and balances the body. It is particularly effective at alleviating stress, and helps to promote feelings of relaxation and wellbeing.

Head, Back and Shoulder Massage can be beneficial for many reasons as it:

• Releases deep muscular tension
• Relieves headache
• Improves posture and breaks poor postural habits
• Clears energy pathways within the body
• Releases emotional tension and stress
• Relieves pain and increases vitality
• Eases muscular pains and injuries
• Reduces mental fatigue

What does a Head, Back and Shoulders Massage treatment involve?

A typical treatment is 30 minutes long and begins with a consultation about your health and lifestyle.

During this consultation I will discuss any physical or emotional issues you have and what you would like to achieve from the session. Privately you will be asked to undress (but remain wearing pants/knickers) and to position yourself under towels/sheet on the massage couch. I will only re-enter the room when you are comfortable and covered. You will remain face down on the couch for the whole treatment.

How will I feel after my treatment?

Most people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment. You may even feel sleepy.

Occasionally, people feel nauseous, anxious, or tearful, but this is only temporary and is considered to be part of the healing process.

Precautions

Head, Back and Shoulder Massage is not appropriate if you have any of the following:

• High Fever
• Infectious diseases
• Contagious skin disorders
• Early pregnancy (less than 16 weeks)
• Unstable pregnancy
• Thrombosis
• Uncontrolled high or low blood pressure
• Undiagnosed lumps

If you're pregnant, talk with your doctor first and contact me. I am happy to massage pregnant ladies 16 weeks plus.

Be sure to give me a complete and accurate health history. I may ask you to get written permission from your doctor if I have any concerns.

I am also able to offer an adapted version of head, back and shoulders massage, suitable for clients who need a much gentler massage, such as elderly people, and those who may be in frail health.

Pregnancy Massage

Pregnancy Massage at ReTreat can be enjoyed from 16 weeks of pregnancy onwards.

Positions can be modified to ensure the experience is comfortable, and muscles can be worked on to prevent and ease muscular tension, reduce stress, improve posture and aid relaxation.

As an experienced pregnancy massage therapist I will modify positions and tailor the massage to any needs you have so you can relax knowing you are in safe hands.

How does Pregnancy Massage work?

Touch can be considered beneficial to ensure the good positioning of the baby and caring therapeutic touch is recognised as a powerful way to help mothers integrate the changes they experience during pregnancy. Women who regularly receive massage during their pregnancy are less anxious about giving birth and ultimately they may have even fewer complications during labour.

Pregnancy Massage can be beneficial for many reasons as it;

• Reduces stress
• Increases sense of wellbeing
• Helps to relax and recharge energy
• Eases muscle and joint pain including sciatica, lower back pain, neck and shoulder pain
• Increases blood flow to the baby
• Increases lymphatic drainage
• Reduces swollen ankles
• Decreases oedema
• May help to reduce varicose veins, constipation, haemorrhoids

Pregnant women can also benefit from Reflexology as it is extremely effective and comfortable to receive and can help to maintain balance throughout the body as it changes through the stages of pregnancy as well as address any specific issues.

What does a Pregnancy Massage treatment involve?

A typical treatment is 60 minutes long and begins with a consultation about your health and lifestyle.

During this consultation I will discuss any physical or emotional issues you may be suffering from and what you would like to achieve from the session. Privately you will be asked to undress (but remain wearing pants/knickers) and to position yourself under a sheet on the massage couch. I will only re-enter the room when you are comfortable and covered. You will be positioned however appropriate for you and your stage of pregnancy. Most of the massage will be performed on your side. I will use pillows to support you and the baby and to make you comfortable.

How will I feel after my treatment?

Most people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment. You may even feel sleepy.

Occasionally, people feel nauseous, anxious, or tearful, but this is only temporary and is considered to be part of the healing process.

Precautions

Pregnancy Massage is not appropriate if you have any of the following:

• Early pregnancy (less than 16 weeks)
• Unstable pregnancy
• Pre-term contractions
• Cervical changes
• Placental dysfunctions (placenta Previa or Placental Abruptions)

Be sure to give me a complete and accurate health history. I may ask you to get written permission from your doctor if I have any concerns.

Tropic Skincare Facial (with Massage)

A Tropic Skincare Facial at Retreat includes a relaxing face mask, a gentle cleanse, tone and moisturise using award winning products which comprise of natural plant and fruit ingredients that are nutritious and beneficial for the skin. All ingredients are sustainably sourced and only contain fresh, premium, natural ingredients such as nourishing seed butters, juicy fruit extracts and aromatic essential oils. Tropic Products are vegan, cruelty free and natural and the company, which is based in Surrey, is certified carbon neutral and an ethically accredited company.

The 75min treatment comes with a full body massage, the 60min treatment comes with an upper body massage (back, arms, hands, neck and chest) and the 30min treatment comes with an arm, hand, neck and chest massage. All treatments use essential oils and Tropic skincare products to promote health of the body and serenity of the mind.

What does a Tropic Skincare Facial treatment involve?

Treatments can be 30min, 60min or 75 mins long. Each begins with a consultation about your skin, health and lifestyle.

During this consultation we will discuss any skincare issues you may have and what you would like to achieve from the session. Skincare products will then be selected. Privately you will be asked to undress (removing clothing for the 30min treatment that will allow me to massage arms, hands, chest and neck and removing all clothing but remain wearing pants/knickers for the 60min and 75min treatments). You will position yourself under towels/sheet on the massage couch. I will only re-enter the room when you are comfortable and covered.

How will I feel after my treatment?

You will leave feeling revitalised, refreshed and glowing. Your skin will feel cleansed, toned and moisturised. Most people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment.

Precautions

A Tropic Skincare Facial is not appropriate if you have any of the following:

• High Fever
• Infectious diseases
• Contagious skin disorders
• Early pregnancy (less than 16 weeks)
• Unstable pregnancy
• Thrombosis
• Uncontrolled high or low blood pressure
• Undiagnosed lumps

If you're pregnant, talk with your doctor first and contact me. I am happy to treat pregnant ladies 16 weeks plus.

Be sure to give me a complete and accurate health history. I may ask you to get written permission from your doctor if I have any concerns.

I am also able to offer an adapted version of the Tropic Skincare Facial, such as for elderly people, and those who may be in frail health.

Hot and Cold Stone Therapy

Hot and Cold Stone Therapy at ReTreat is a type of massage that uses heated basalt stones. Like convential massage the stones work the superficial and deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue, to enhance function, aid in the healing process, and promote relaxation and well-being.

How does Hot and Cold Stone Therapy work?

Using heated stones throughout the massage will help to bring about physical and psychological responses within the body, which results in a number of therapeutic benefits.

Hot temperatures from the stones are able to penetrate the body up to a depth of 4cm allowing for a slightly deeper massage manipulation of the soft tissues and eliminates any discomfort that may occur from remedial massage alone.

The stones will help to soothes aches and pains, relaxes the muscles and connective tissues, relaxes the mind and purifies the body. It is particularly effective at alleviating stress, and helps to promote feelings of relaxation and well-being.it is deeply relaxing and very comforting.

Hot and Cold Stone Therapy can be beneficial for many reasons, as it;

• Releases deep muscular tension
• Realigns muscles and fascia
• Clears energy pathways within the body
• Releases emotional tension and stress
• Relieves pain and increases vitality
• Reduces mental fatigue
• Increases blood and lymphatic drainage

What does a Hot and Cold Stone Therapy treatment involve?

A typical treatment is 90 minutes long and begins with a consultation about your health and lifestyle.

During this consultation I will discuss any physical or emotional issues you may have and what you would like to achieve from the session. Areas to concentrate on will be decided. Privately you will be asked to undress (but remain wearing pants/knickers) and to position yourself under towels/sheet on the massage couch. I will only re-enter the room when you are comfortable and covered. The massage routine will vary depending on your needs but will include a combination of massage of the back, legs, arms.

How will I feel after my treatment?

Most people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment. You may even feel sleepy.

Occasionally, people feel nauseous, anxious, or tearful, but this is only temporary and is considered to be part of the healing process.

Precautions

Hot and Cold Stone Therapy is not appropriate if you have any of the following:

• High Fever
• Infectious diseases
• Contagious skin disorders
• Early pregnancy (less than 16 weeks)
• Unstable pregnancy
• Thrombosis
• Uncontrolled high or low blood pressure
• Undiagnosed lumps

Be sure to give me a complete and accurate health history. I may ask you to get written permission from your doctor if I have any concerns.

I am also able to offer an adapted version of Hot and Cold Stone Therapy, suitable for clients who need a much gentler massage, such as elderly people, and those who may be in frail health.

Indian Head Massage

Indian Head Massage at ReTreat is an excellent method for releasing stiffness in the neck, shoulders and upper back, as well as loosening and stimulating the scalp to improve circulation and the condition of hair and skin. It is a relaxing therapy that can be extremely effective in preventing and alleviating common tension headaches and can help those suffering from migraine. It is also very good at helping to reduce mental fatigue and to improve concentration.

On a more general level these sessions help to relieve everyday stresses and tension, release and eliminate toxins and lactic acid that build up around the muscles and the joints, and promote a state of self-healing and health in both body and mind.

How does Indian Head Massage work?

Its aim is to release stress that has accumulated in the tissue, muscles and joints of the head, face, neck and shoulders. It works by using different massage movements, such as compression and kneading, to stimulate endorphins to the brain and release accumulated stress in the tissues, muscles and joints of the upper body. I will also bring relaxation and relief by gently stimulating and stroking facial pressure points.

Indian Head Massage can be beneficial for many reasons, as it;

• Improves blood flow
• Reduces muscular tension
• Gives greater joint mobility
• Improves flexibility in the neck and shoulders
• Disperses toxins from tense, knotted muscles
• Reduces stress and fatigue
• Reduces eyestrain
• Prevents insomnia
• Relieves body tension
• Relieves headaches and migraines
• Relieves sinus problems earache and tinnitus
• Relieves aching jaws from clenching or grinding teeth
• Loosens scalp
• Revitalises

What does an Indian Head Massage treatment involve?

A typical treatment is 20-30 minutes long and begins with a consultation about your health. It can be undertaken seated and fully or partially clothed. Your head, neck, shoulders, arms and hands will be massaged.

How will I feel after my treatment?

Most people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment. You may even feel sleepy. Some patients feel energised, revitalised and better able to focus on life’s challenges.

Occasionally, people feel nauseous, anxious, or tearful, but this is only temporary and is considered to be part of the healing process.

Precautions

Indian Head Massage is not appropriate if you have any of the following

• High Fever
• Infectious diseases
• Contagious skin disorders
• Early pregnancy (less than 16 weeks)
• Unstable pregnancy
• Thrombosis
• Uncontrolled high or low blood pressure
• Undiagnosed lumps

If you're pregnant, talk with your doctor first and contact me. I am happy to massage pregnant ladies 16 weeks plus.

Be sure to give me a complete and accurate health history. I may ask you to get written permission from your doctor if I have any concerns.

I am also able to offer an adapted version of Indian Head Massage, suitable for clients who need a much gentler massage, such as elderly people, and those who may be in frail health.

Thermal Auricular Therapy

Thermal Auricular Therapy at ReTreat is a gentle non-invasive treatment used to treat a number of conditions of the ears, nose and throat. Its roots are to be found in Asia and can be traced back to the Indians of North and South America. The Hopi Ear Candles were developed by the Hopi Indians (Hopi means ‘peaceful people’) who used them to clear and balance the head on a physical and spiritual level. The effect of burning the ear candles induces a pleasant feeling of warmth.

Natural health practitioners worldwide have used this gentle and natural treatment for more than fifteen years with great success.

How does Thermal Auricular Therapy work?

The candles are made from cotton, beeswax & honey. The candle is lit and the non-burning end is inserted into the ear. As the candle burns down, the heat creates a vacuum which draws up any impurities to the surface for elimination. The client may hear some gentle crackling and hissing sounds, but this is normal. The treatment itself is highly relaxing and includes a neck and head massage.

Thermal Auricular Therapy can be beneficial for many conditions, including;

• Excess or compacted ear wax
• Irritation in the ear or sinuses
• Blocked sinuses
• Sinusitis
• Tinnitus
• Rhinitis
• Frequent ear infections
• Headaches and migraines
• Hearing issues
• Noises in the ear – such as ringing
• Vertigo, Menieres Syndrome - Helps to balance fluids in the labyrinth
• Coordination of the cerebral hemisphere

What does a Thermal Auricular Therapy treatment involve?

A typical treatment is 60 minutes long and begins with a consultation about your health and lifestyle.

You will be asked to lie on your back with your head turned to one side and the candle will be lit and gently inserted into your outer ear. I will hold the candle in place while the candle is burning (around 15 minutes). During which I will gently massage the neck and below the ear. This is then repeated on the other ear and followed by further massage of the head, face and scalp to help the ears and sinuses to clear themselves. While the candle is burning you may hear gentle little crackling sounds which most people find very soothing and pleasant.

How will I feel after my treatment?

Most people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment. You may even feel sleepy. Sometimes clients’ noses run and they feel lightheaded. Some clients experience a slight headache.

Precautions

Thermal Auricular Therapy is not appropriate if you have any of the following

• Grommets
• Inflammation or infection of the ear
• Perforated ear drum (treatment can be carried out with patient consent)
• High Fever
• Infectious diseases
• Contagious skin disorders

If you're pregnant, talk with your doctor first and contact me. I am happy to treat pregnant ladies 16 weeks plus.

Be sure to give me a complete and accurate health history. I may ask you to get written permission from your doctor if I have any concerns.

I am also able to offer an adapted version of Thermal Auricular Therapy suitable for clients who need a much gentler massage, such as elderly people, and those who may be in frail health.

Scar Therapy

Scar therapy is a non-invasive physical therapy to treat scar tissue, fibrosis and adhesions after surgery or injury using specialist scar massage and fascial release, therapy tools and self-care advice to promote healthy recovery.

Scar tissue forms as a result of injury, accident or post operative. It is a dense, inelastic tissue that is laid down by the body at areas of trauma to heal the disrupted tissue. Scar adhesions can attach to impact on and disrupt other local tissues and even local organs. This can lead to ongoing issues such as restriction n of movement, altered sensation or discomfort.

After a treatment the scar can visually appear flatter, smaller, less prominent and lighter in colour.

What does Scar Therapy Treatment Involve?

Following your consultation and assessment your treatment will be tailored to focus on areas of tightness and tension around your scar and the underlying fascia, muscles and any fibrotic tissue. It is a gentle treatment selecting a variety of massage techniques, working around the scar to release tension and any restrictions the scar may cause as well as the surrounding area. Treatment will always be within your comfort level.

How does Scar Therapy work?

Scar tissue cannot be broken down but scar therapy aims to encourage the best relationship between the scar tissue and the other structure it impacts on.

Scar Therapy has been developed to:

• Stimulate changes in scar, both on the skin surface, and any adhesions or fibrosis in the underlying tissue
• Loosen and release tight scar tissue to reduce discomfort. Treatment can be beneficial on both new and old scar tissue
• Reduce tightness and encourage mobility between the layers of skin, fascia and muscle, range of movement can often improve
• Reduce prolonged discomfort, pain and help normalise sensitivity - trapped nerves and irritated scar tissue can be a factor for prolonged discomfort
• Promote functional and cosmetic improvements after surgery or injury
• Support emotional well-being after a surgery or trauma

How will you feel after the treatment?

The outcome of the treatment will depend on many factors including the age of the scar, the size of the scar, the length of treatment etc.

After a treatment the scar can visually appear flatter, smaller, less prominent and lighter in colour. Mobility and sensitivity normally improve and comfort levels improve.

Usually the scar will feel softer, smoother and looser after treatment.

Not all scars will look physically different as improvements may be occurring under the skin.

What scars can Scar Therapy treat?

Scar Therapy can be used for new or maturing scars (8+weeks and without any scabs and when the skin can tolerate touch without causing damage) and old scars. Ideally Scar Therapy should start within the first 16 weeks after a surgery or operation when activity in the scar is high but it is also beneficial to promote health in mature scars (at any time after 24 months)

All types of scars can be worked on, any scars that is a result of an accident, operation or cosmetic surgery e.g.

• Joint replacement - hip, knee, shoulder
• Spinal surgery
• Breast surgery - reduction/augmentation
• Mastectomy
• lumpectomy
• Abdominal surgery
• Foot/hand surgery
• Appendix/Gall Bladder removal
• Caesarean section
• Hysterectomy
• Key hole surgery
• Facial scarring
• Skin grafts
• Burns

and many more.

Precautions

Scar Therapy is not appropriate if you have any of the following:

• High Fever
• Infectious diseases
• Contagious skin disorders
• Unstable pregnancy
• Thrombosis

Scar Therapy is not appropriate if the scar has any of the following:

• An Infection
• it is weeping or oozing
• it is over a haematoma or suspected haematoma
• it has a scab or open wound

A scar that is less than 8 weeks old (treatment may go ahead with consultation letter of approval) nor can a scar be treated if you are receiving radiotherapy.

If you're pregnant, talk with your doctor first and contact me. I am not able to work on scars on the torso on pregnant women.

Be sure to give me a complete and accurate health history. I may ask you to get written permission from your doctor if I have any concerns.

I am also able to offer an adapted version of Scar Therapy, suitable for clients who need a much gentler massage, such as elderly people, and those who may be in frail health.