Gentle scar tissue release for comfort, movement & confidence.
A gentle, hands-on technique that works with scars and the surrounding tissue to support mobility, comfort, lymphatic drainage and tissue function. Suitable for scars from eight weeks old through to scars you have had for years.
A gentle, hands-on approach to scar tissue.
McLoughlin Scar Tissue Release (MSTR®) is a gentle, hands-on technique that works with scars and the surrounding tissue to support mobility, comfort, lymphatic drainage and tissue function. It was developed by Alastair McLoughlin and is used by practitioners worldwide.
Scars can sometimes become tight, sensitive, raised, thickened or restricted, and that can affect the deeper fascia and connective tissue. This may contribute to pulling sensations, swelling, discomfort or reduced range of motion.
After surgery or injury, adhesions can form. These are internal bands of scar tissue that limit movement or create tightness. Using precise, gentle pressure, this technique may help soften restrictions, support circulation and lymph flow, and improve comfort.
The work is calm and non-invasive, and most people are surprised at how light the touch is. MSTR may support scars from as early as eight weeks old through to long-standing scars you have had for many years.
MSTR is booked as its own session and is not combined with Bowen. If you would like both, they are scheduled as separate visits at least five days apart.
What MSTR may help with
Pain. Restricted movement. Swelling. The look and feel of the scar itself.
Pain relief
Pulling, tightness, sharp twinges or referred pain originating from scar tissue.
Range of movement
Restricted movement around joints or across the trunk after surgery or injury.
Appearance
Softer, flatter, less raised or puckered scar tissue. A change in look and feel.
Swelling & lymph flow
Gentle work that may support circulation and lymphatic drainage around the scar.
MSTR may be helpful after
To reduce pain, increase range of motion or improve appearance.
A scar should be fully healed before MSTR, generally at least eight weeks after surgery, or as cleared by your surgeon. Get in touch if you are not sure whether your scar is ready.
What to expect
We start with a conversation about your scar: how you got it, how old it is, and what it's doing to you now. Pain, pulling, a joint that won't move the way it used to, or simply how it looks.
I'll look at the scar and gently check how it and the surrounding tissue move. Then the treatment itself: light, precise work on and around the scar. There's no pressing hard and nothing aggressive.
Afterwards we'll talk about what you noticed and whether a follow-up makes sense. MSTR is booked as its own session, at least five days apart from any Bowen treatment.
MSTR after breast surgery
Numbness, swelling, pain and restricted shoulder movement can linger long after surgery. MSTR can help.
MSTR FAQ
What is McLoughlin Scar Tissue Release (MSTR)?
McLoughlin Scar Tissue Release is a gentle, hands-on technique that works with scars and the surrounding tissue to support mobility, comfort, lymphatic drainage and tissue function. It was developed by Alastair McLoughlin and is used by practitioners worldwide. Using precise, gentle pressure, it may help soften restrictions, support circulation and lymph flow, and improve comfort.
What does MSTR feel like?
Calm and non-invasive. Most clients are surprised at how light the touch is — and at how quickly scars can soften and become more comfortable. There is no pressing, breaking down or aggressive working of the tissue.
How old can the scar be?
MSTR may support scars from as early as eight weeks old through to long-standing scars that have been there for many years. A scar should be fully healed before MSTR is applied, generally at least eight weeks after surgery, or as cleared by your surgeon.
How many MSTR sessions will I need?
It depends on the scar. Some people notice a change after a single session, while older, larger or more restricted scars may need a few. After your first session I'll give you an honest opinion on what to expect, and there is no obligation.
What does MSTR help with?
MSTR may be helpful after caesarean births, hysterectomies, abdominal or laparoscopic surgery, breast surgery, joint replacements, tendon or ligament repairs, cosmetic surgery, plantar fasciitis or trauma-related scarring, to reduce pain, increase range of motion or improve appearance.
Can MSTR be combined with Bowen Therapy?
No — MSTR and Bowen are offered as separate, standalone treatments and are not combined within the same session. They also can't be booked back-to-back: we recommend a minimum of five days between any Bowen session and any other bodywork (including MSTR), as multiple hands-on therapies in close succession can overload the nervous system and interrupt the Bowen reset.
Book your MSTR session.
Book online in a couple of minutes, or call if you're not sure whether your scar is ready.