Abdominal Scar Management
Presented by Erica Holland
This course provides a comprehensive exploration of the clinical impact that rehabilitative care of pathologic abdominal scars has on visceral and neuromuscular systems. Although abdominal surgeries are among the most common procedures in the United States, the resulting scar tissue is often undertreated, leading to complications such as chronic pain, bowel dysfunction, and restricted mobility. Practitioners will learn to navigate the four stages of wound healing—hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling—to apply timely and effective interventions. The curriculum covers a multidisciplinary approach, including the use of silicone-based topicals, abdominal compression, and evidence-based electrical modalities like TENS and shock wave therapy. Furthermore, the course details manual therapy techniques and the development of progressive triplanar exercise programs designed to restore functional movement and improve patient quality of life. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical demonstrations of assessment and management tools, therapists will gain the skills necessary to address the complex needs of patients following gastrointestinal, obstetric/gynecologic, and general abdominal surgeries.
Learning Outcomes
- Outline the influence of trunk and abdominal scar tissue on a patient’s movement during daily occupations and functional activities
- Match the scar healing chronology to therapeutic interventions and precautions
- Recognize the role of abdominal, pelvic, and lower extremity compression garments in scar management
- Identify the benefits of topical modalities for scar healing
- Select appropriate electrical modalities for scar management based on specific tissue characteristics
- Select appropriate triplanar exercises to include in a progressive program based on scar maturity
Meet your instructor
Erica Holland
Dr. Erica Holland is a pelvic health physical therapist with advanced specialty training in pelvic neurology, abdominopelvic oncology, and pelvic impairments of all genders. She earned a master’s degree from the University of Evansville and a doctorate from Virginia Commonwealth University. Erica is board certified in women’s…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Implications of Pathologic Scars
This chapter establishes the scope of the clinical problem by examining how surgical, cosmetic, and traumatic abdominal scars influence biomechanics and organ function. Learners will identify the healing timeline and the importance of a multidisciplinary team in managing neuropathies and visceral restrictions.
2. Topical Management
This section focuses on external interventions for fluid management and scar maturation, including the use of abdominal binding and topical products. Practitioners will learn the rationale for mechanotransduction and how to recommend appropriate compression garments to minimize attrition and maximize healing.
3. Mechanical Management
This chapter details the application of manual therapy and various modalities to improve tissue elasticity and desensitize painful scars. It provides practical guidance on the timing and parameters for using tools such as cupping, vibration, and electrical stimulation throughout the healing process.
4. Triplanar Exercise
The final chapter guides the development of exercise prescriptions based on the specific phase of wound healing, from acute diaphragmatic breathing to mature restoration. Therapists will learn to implement progressive sinusoidal rotation and loading strategies to ensure deep to global core engagement and functional recovery.
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