Movement library
Scar careScar / skinmoderatePhases 2, 3, 4
Scar massage (post-closure)
Multidirectional scar mobilization
Improves skin and subcutaneous mobility so tendons can glide.
Best for
- Healed surgical scar
- Tendon adhesion risk
Default dose
4 min • 2×/day
Equipment
Lotion (optional), Silicone sheet (optional)
Avoid when
- Open wound
- Infection signs
- Fragile skin
Measurement targets
- Scar mobility (subjective)
Setup
- Apply lotion if cleared.
Steps
- 1Small circles over the scar.
- 2Side-to-side motion.
- 3Up-down motion.
- 4Skin rolling around scar.
Cues
- Move the skin, not just the lotion.
Common mistakes
- Working on an unhealed scar.
Stop rules
- Sharp pain (≥ 4/10)
- Increasing swelling during or after
- New or worsening numbness or tingling
- Color change in fingers (pale, blue, red)
- Wound opens, drains, or feels hot
- Next morning is worse than the day before
- Scar opens or weeps
Progressions
- Add silicone sheet if recommended.
Regressions
- Shorter sessions.
Continue your rehab
What to do next — not a dead end
Suggestions use body region, goal, motion type, and allowed phases — not your medical record. After surgery or a flare, follow your clinician first.
Estimated time
~4 min typical block
~4 min · 2×/day
Equipment
Lotion (optional), Silicone sheet (optional)
Rehab stage
Phases 2, 3, 4
Higher load or coordination — scale range and speed.
Where this shows up clinically
How phases map to healingPrerequisite / gentler lane
Same region and intent — usually earlier phase or lower risk.
Commonly paired with
Different primary goal, same region — typical mixed sessions.
Related movements
Similar mechanics, goals, or anatomy.
Guided exercises that use this
Step-by-step sessions that embed this movement pattern.
Keep momentum without overdoing it
Log a short check-in to protect your streak — even one quality set counts.
Scaling in plain language: Easier — Shorter sessions. · Harder — Add silicone sheet if recommended.Full cues ↑