From knees to elbows, wounds to body parts containing a joint can be particularly tricky to heal. That’s because these high-movement locations can make it hard for the wound to heal initially, which can contribute to scarring. Other high-movement locations include the face and hairline, where expressions can hamper healing as well.
Specific locations of scarring make healing very difficult, especially on the hands, feet, or large joints. This can result in functional problems that can affect the ability to conduct daily tasks.
The formation of keloid scars in particular can be hard to heal. These scars are the result of an overly-aggressive healing process, extending beyond the original injury. Over time, keloid scars can hamper movement. Contracture scars due to burns can also be challenging, as theytighten the skin and impair the ability to move. And because contracture scars tend to go deeper, they can affect nerves and muscles.
Proper Treatment is Key
Proper treatment of scars in high-movement areas is imperative. In the case of smaller, less invasive scars, OTC creams, ointments, and silicone gels such as Scarfade can lessen the scar’s appearance. Apply Scarfade twice a day, massaging it into the area to help break up scar tissue.
Deep wounds heal by forming scar tissue, shrinking and tightening as it forms. When scar tissue forms over a joint, this shrinking, also known as contraction, pulls nearby tissue inwards. As a result, this tightening can cause limited movement around the joint.
If the scar is allowed to become tight over the joint, muscles and other tissues will also get tight, leading to possible permanent movement restrictions (known as contracture). In their earliest stages, scars can actually be changed, making this a very important time in preventing contractures because they’re more easily shaped. Think of a scar as fluid cement in its early stages, and then hardened concrete in its later stages.
Once set, scars are difficult or impossible to shape. Maintaining movement is key to ensure things don’t progress to this point. Joint contracture may be prevented with massage and silicone gels and creams. But the work lies with you. Scar tissue will tighten 24 hours a day, which makes it crucial to stop the tightening on your own. Scar tissue can take two years to mature, and prevention is much better than cure. It may take hard work and diligence, but can help you avoid surgery down the line while feeling more comfortable in everyday life.
Use Scarfade on High-Movement Areas
Got a scar on an elbow, knee or other joint? Use Scarfade to minimize the appearance of the scar. Pick up a tube today or contact us to learn more.