Trauma release/Scar tissue
Scar tissue is fascia that has healed but not released. When working on scar tissue one must keep in mind that the release is done beneath the skin, it does not mean you will change the superficial scar.
If one has been for an operation and after healing has taken place, you will find the area is still sensitive. It is this sensitivity that one needs to release in order for a fully functioning superficial layer of fascia. The reason for releasing scar tissue is that we need to encourage a free range of motion without restrictions.
Due to the fact that horses cannot speak I tried this on a friend that has been for an operation. During the session she mentioned that is was very sensitive and two days later she was still in discomfort. We must keep this in mind when working on scar tissue and horses.
If one has been for an operation and after healing has taken place, you will find the area is still sensitive. It is this sensitivity that one needs to release in order for a fully functioning superficial layer of fascia. The reason for releasing scar tissue is that we need to encourage a free range of motion without restrictions.
Due to the fact that horses cannot speak I tried this on a friend that has been for an operation. During the session she mentioned that is was very sensitive and two days later she was still in discomfort. We must keep this in mind when working on scar tissue and horses.
| fourie_understanding_scars_and_adhesions_implications_for_manual_therapy.[1].pdf |
In the first clip it is visible that working on the scar tissue over the back caused tremors in the left shoulder of the horse. Tremors can manifest anywhere and therefore one should be alert whilst working on scar tissue. Tremors are not limited to scar tissue only but to any area that there is stress. A sore back from a poor fitting saddle may cause tremors over the back to wards the head.
In the clip below I have worked on the scar tissue for short periods of time during the entire session. By the end of the session and the entire horse being done it is visible that I can work on the scar tissue without the horse tremoring in the shoulder. This horse was given of a few days off after the session due to his age and the duration of the scar.