Is It Common to Have Pain and Tension in the Scar After Cardiac Surgery? How scar Massage and Microcurrent can help.
- Nicole Longwell

- Jul 10
- 2 min read

💔 Is Scar Pain After Cardiac Surgery Normal?
Yes—pain, tightness, or tension in the scar area after cardiac surgery is quite common. While your body is healing from a major procedure like open-heart surgery or bypass surgery, it creates scar tissue to close the incision. But this scar tissue is denser and less flexible than your original tissue, which can cause discomfort as it matures.
🔎 Why Scar Pain Happens After Heart Surgery
Scar tissue can bind to surrounding skin, fascia, and even muscle, leading to:
Pulling or tightness across the chest
Pain with stretching, deep breathing, or posture changes
Restricted range of motion
A sensation of internal “stiffness” or tugging
This discomfort may last for months or even years if not addressed with scar-specific care.

🔬 Scar Tissue and the Nervous System
Scar tissue can trap nerve endings, leading to long-lasting discomfort, hypersensitivity, or dull aching. Some people also develop adhesions, which are deeper internal bands of scar tissue that limit movement or affect posture.
💡 What You Can Do About It
If you’re experiencing scar-related pain after heart surgery, the following therapies can help:
✅ 1. Manual Scar Tissue Therapy
A trained therapist can use gentle techniques to release restrictions, improve tissue mobility, and reduce pain.
✅ 2. Lymphatic Drainage Massage
After surgery, the lymphatic system can become congested. Lymphatic massage helps reduce swelling, support immune function, and promote faster recovery around scar areas.
✅ 3. Microcurrent Therapy for Scar Tissue
Low-frequency electrical stimulation can improve cellular communication, reduce inflammation, and soften dense scar tissue—often relieving tightness and pain.
✅ 4. Daily Movement + Breathwork
Simple stretching and deep breathing help mobilize the chest wall, keep scar tissue flexible, and retrain healthy movement patterns.
🧠 When to Seek Help
If scar pain interferes with daily activities, sleep, or emotional wellbeing, consult your healthcare provider or a licensed bodyworker trained in post-surgical scar therapy. You don't have to live with persistent tension—it’s treatable.
🌀 In Summary
Scar pain after cardiac surgery is common—but it’s not something you have to just "live with." With the right tools and care, you can reduce discomfort, restore freedom of movement, and support long-term healing.


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