The simple answer is Yes. Fibrous tissue or scarring, as well as adhesions, are part of the normal process of tissue healing. Skin takes about 5-10 days, top layers less than two months and the deeper layers and womb about 3 months to completely heal. Each additional Cesarean or C-Section
performed causes further accumulation of scarring and adhesions in the abdomen and incision site.
The photo here is an example of a cesarean scar and appendectomy scar. Looking at the picture, I notice three different lines of tension. First we look at the C-section, adhesions are pulling the scar deep and left into the pelvis. Then looking at the appendectomy scar which has keloid tissue (excess scar growth), this scar is being pulled upward toward the right ribs. Then the umbilicus or belly button is pulled up diagonally toward the right ribs.
How a scar or adhesion presents reveals a lot
How a scar presents its self can tell an expert in manual therapy, where adhesions superficially and deep within might be found. These lines of tension will also change and compromise the way our body functions and moves. Our bodies are amazing as to how much we are able to accommodate and compensate for injuries, scarring, and stress in general. But eventually, we can come to a breaking point or a point of no return.
Complications following Cesarean and C-Sections
- Pain in the abdomen, back or pelvis.
- Feeling like you can not stand up straight, trouble with twisting and bending, lifting up your legs
above the hips without effort or reach overhead because of the scar pulling. - New abdominal concerns of pressure, gas, bloating, cramps, constipation, menstrual pain, IBS.
- Abdominal weakness.
- Changes in bowels or bladder elimination, pain, urinary urgency or frequency.
- Unexplained lower extremity swelling.
- Pain sensitivity around the cesarean scar.
- Difficulty sitting or standing still, needing to frequently reposition to feel comfortable.
- Painful sexual relations.
An EXPERT in manual therapy will look at the whole body, not only the obvious external scarring
and adhesions, but will treat all associated soft tissues, muscles, ligaments, organs and vessels such as
the vein, arteries, nerves and lymphatics. The aforementioned tissues ultimately attached to our
bony skeleton, thus the skeletal system is part of the treatment. Goals of treatment are to resolve
not only the physical complaints but restore the function, elasticity and mobility of the scar and all
associated tissues. Adhesions be gone!
DID you know? I am a pioneer in Women’s Heath, I took my first seminar on the subject in 1997
and have specialized ever since. Adhesions and scarring is my EXPERTISE.
By filling out a patient history form at Marycoxphysicaltherapy.com you will receive a free consultation and advice from Mary Cox PT.
