Sharon Wheeler
What is ScarWork and Its Lineage?
ScarWork is a gentle, yet highly effective, therapeutic approach to treating scar tissue, developed by Sharon Wheeler, a pioneer in the field of structural integration. Sharon Wheeler trained directly under Dr. Ida P. Rolf, the founder of Rolfing®, and later developed ScarWork as a way to specifically address the fascial restrictions caused by scars. Scar tissue, whether from surgeries, injuries, or trauma, can create tension in the surrounding tissues and disrupt the body’s natural alignment and movement patterns. ScarWork aims to soften, integrate, and realign scar tissue, bringing it back into harmony with the rest of the body.
Sharon Wheeler's method of ScarWork is unique in its gentle approach, working with the body's innate ability to heal and restructure itself. By addressing not just the surface appearance of scars, but also the deeper fascial layers affected, ScarWork can help restore mobility, sensation, and balance throughout the body.
How I Use ScarWork in a Rolfing Session or as a Stand-Alone Treatment
In my practice, I incorporate ScarWork either within a traditional Rolfing session or as a stand-alone treatment, depending on the client’s needs. During a Rolfing session, if scar tissue is found to be restricting movement, causing pain, or contributing to postural imbalances, I may use ScarWork techniques to address these issues directly. This approach helps to further integrate the body’s structure and enhances the overall realignment process in Rolfing.
ScarWork can also be a dedicated stand-alone session for clients who are primarily focused on treating their scars. Whether it’s recent scarring from surgery or older, more established scars, ScarWork is highly beneficial in restoring function and comfort to the affected areas. Clients who choose stand-alone ScarWork sessions often notice improvements in their mobility, pain levels, and the appearance of the scar itself.
Types Of Scars Treated
Surgical scars
C-Sections
Mastectomies
Accidental Scars (e.g., from cuts, lacerations, or falls)
Burn Scars
I have treated a wide variety of scars in different areas of the body. If you're curious about whether ScarWork could benefit your specific scar or scars, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We can discuss your individual situation and determine if this approach is right for you.
Scars from Injuries or Accidents
Impact Traumas from injuries
Cosmetic Surgery Scars
Scars from orthopedic surgeries (e.g., ACL repair, spinal surgery)
Additional Benefits and Considerations for ScarWork
One of the most important aspects of ScarWork is its holistic approach to healing. Scars don’t just affect the local area where they are formed; they can create tension throughout the body by pulling on the fascial network. By addressing the scar tissue in a comprehensive way, ScarWork helps to release tension throughout the entire body, which can have profound effects on posture, movement, and even emotional well-being.
ScarWork is suitable for all kinds of scars, including those from surgeries, accidents, burns, or even minor injuries. It can be effective for scars that are fresh or decades old, making it a versatile treatment option. In addition to physical benefits, clients often report a reduction in the emotional weight they carry related to their scars, feeling more at ease and accepting of their bodies.
Sharon Wheeler contributed to this illustrated book which explains the effects of scars and adhesions on the body through the lens of biotensegrity.
How ScarWork is Done and What It Accomplishes
ScarWork is performed using light, subtle touch techniques that work directly with the scar and the surrounding tissue. I use gentle strokes, lifts, and stretches to soften the scar and restore elasticity to the tissue beneath it. Unlike other deep tissue techniques, ScarWork is painless and works to invite the tissue to reorganize naturally, rather than forcing change.
The goal of ScarWork is not only to improve the physical appearance of the scar but also to address the underlying adhesions and restrictions in the fascial web. By releasing these restrictions, ScarWork can restore mobility, reduce discomfort, and improve the overall function of the area affected by the scar. This helps the body move more freely and reduces compensatory patterns that may have developed due to the scar tissue.