Sharon Wheeler’s ScarWork
Light touch work to assist with problem scars and adhesions
ScarWork in action
ScarWork is the brainchild of Sharon Wheeler from Seattle, US. Originally trained by Ida Rolf, Sharon has been training and teaching for over 40 years, during which time she has developed an approach which has only been available in the UK since 2014 when Jan first brought her to the UK to teach her ground-breaking work. ScarWork is a gentle, painless approach designed to assist with scar and adhesion problems after surgery/injury. Jan Trewartha was the first UK ScarWork teacher to be accredited by Sharon and has been teaching ScarWork since 2015.
How it works
ScarWork is a series of techniques to assist with reconfiguring the soft tissue, normally reducing the adhesions left by scarring and improving the scar’s appearance. Adhesions stick structures together that should not be stuck together; this can restrict mobility and function and cause discomfort or agonising pain. We do not yet understand fully how ScarWork works. Research is ongoing into the power of the light touch approach, but empirical evidence demonstrates its effectiveness.
It is not possible to restore correct balance and alignment to the body if there is a restriction in the tissues caused by severe injury and/or scarring. For this reason we teach to focus on the scars first; this allows for a more permanent result when other physical problems and internal imbalances are addressed. Further, the traumatic memory of injury/surgery often surfaces after ScarWork and this has been reported to help reduce internal stress level and improve emotional balance.
How ScarWork can help you
ScarWork is a gentle, painless therapy which assists the softening of scar tissue and reduces the tension the scar and adhesions have created within the network of fascia. The therapist works completely within the pain guidelines of the body; the client feeds back if there is any discomfort and the therapist adapts their touch, angle, and/or technique accordingly.
Although there is often an aesthetic improvement in a scar, the primary aim is always to alleviate issues under the skin; often both aims are achieved.
Everyone feels the result of ScarWork differently, because everyone’s history is different. If a scar has been causing problems with your walking, we may find that gait improves. If there have been problems internally, with organ function, we may notice a reduction in those issues.
FREE SCARWORK - although we have an ever-increasing number of ScarWork therapists worldwide, you also have the option of being a 'scar model', i.e. joining a course for the students to work on in a supervised capacity. Please contact admin@bodyinharmony.org.uk to be added to the Scar Model mailing list, thank you.
A magical, enlightening experience. You’ve opened up my mind to so much! I felt so safe in your hands and as though it was meant to be. I can’t believe the difference to the scars and the way I feel after each treatment. I am so grateful to you, thank you. Victoria, ScarWork model
I was very excited about this course as I feel it works hand in hand with my other modalities. I have benefited immensely from the invaluable knowledge and experience you have Jan, that will undoubtedly benefit myself and my practice. Thank you. ScarWork student
As a manual therapist to have gained the working knowledge of scars will immensely improve the results of my sessions. Thank you Jan. Micky Frackleton, ScarWork student
Working on the epidural site was an inspiration – instant relief! ScarWork model.
Cannot express how excited I am to begin bringing this work to my practice and share the benefits with my clients. Experiencing and witnessing this work has been quite miraculous, opening a whole other door to my understanding of the body and its innate ability to heal. Anna McLeod, student.