We have a guest on the blog today talking about something that might just be one of the coolest (no pun intended) articles we’ve ever read.
Taylor Ann Crouse, a Physical Therapist and TSC community member told us that The Skinny Confidential tools are non-negotiables in her own scar care routine and something she recommends to anyone with a surgery scar, namely C-sections.
Now, if you’ve had a C-section, you know that it’s no joke. It’s a major surgery that requires time, patience and care to heal properly. Not an easy feat when you have a newborn to care for. Taylor helps clients with scar mobilization all the time and TSC tools are a must in her own recovery routine. So of course we had to share it with you. But you don’t have to have just had a baby via C-section to take this advice. Scar mobilization is important for any kind of instense surgery scar, so keep reading.
With that, let’s get into it with Dr. Taylor Crouse.
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Hi! I’m Taylor Ann Crouse, a licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy with seven enriching years of experience in the field. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with diverse populations, refining my skills and deepening my expertise. I am also a certified dry needling clinician and love blending traditional and innovative techniques to optimize my clients’ physical well-being.
After years in traditional rehab settings, I recently dove headfirst into the wellness space as Director of Physical Wellness, Lead Physical Therapist, and Health Coach at Allied Wellness. While I find joy in various facets of PT and wellness, my passions lie with women’s health and lymphatic drainage. In these areas, I merge a distinctive blend of expertise, passion, and dedication, inspired by my own journey as a new mom striving to reclaim my former vitality which lead to a deeper understanding of the healing process and importance in this domain.
Additionally, I’m enthusiastic about utilizing my expertise in anatomy and physiology, along with its various systems, to bridge the connection between the beauty and rehabilitation domains. This journey started years ago with my introduction to and utilization of The Skinny Confidential products, which have brought success not only for myself but also for my patients.
My guiding philosophy emphasizes holistic health, built upon a foundation of physical therapy principles with an aim to empower individuals to lead their healthiest, most vibrant lives possible.
Importance of Scar Mobilization After a C-Section
Your C-section scar isn’t just a mark on your skin – it’s a reminder of the incredible transformation your body went through but let’s face it – the postpartum period comes with its fair share of challenges and that scar is one of them! C-section scars, along with other significant scars, require our focus and care due to the impact on our physical health and healing journey.
First, let’s talk about why scar tissue mobilization is essential and an absolute game-changer.
Restore Your Body’s Balance: Scar tissue is annoying and disturbs the body’s overall flow. Mobilizing the scar tissue helps restore balance and harmony in your body, allowing everything to move and groove as it should. It’s like giving your abdomen a spa day.
Break Up Adhesions: Scar tissue can develop adhesions that cause layers of tissue to stick together. These tiny troublemakers can wreak havoc on your body, leading to discomfort and restricted movement that can impact posture and overall flexibility. But fear not! Scar tissue mobilization can help break up these adhesions, giving you more mobility and flexibility.
And, here’s the deal, if you don’t show that scar some love, things can get a little messy. Let’s walk through what happens when you ignore that scar…
Stiffness and Tightness: Without mobilization, scar tissue can become stiff and tight can lead to discomfort, restricted movement, and even chronic pain making everyday activities feel like a chore.
Sensitivity: Ever felt like your scar is hypersensitive to touch? That’s because the nerves around the scar can become hypersensitive over time or become overly sensitive with time. Fortunately, scar tissue mobilization can assist in desensitizing these nerves, allowing you to touch and move without feeling overly cautious.
Impact on Abdominal Function: Scar tissue can interfere with the function of your abdominal muscles, leading to weakness, instability, and potential issues with core strength and support. This can contribute to problems such as back pain and pelvic floor dysfunction.
Remember, scar tissue mobilization is an important part of your healing journey, no matter what kind of scar you’re rocking.
Here’s how I use The Skinny Confidential tools in my practice and why I recommend.
As a Physical Therapist and someone who recently had an open Myomectomy surgery (hello C-section scare right before swim season), The Skinny Confidential product line up has been a staple for my scar care and now a must in my recovery routine. From both a personal and PT stand point, these 4 products are now my go to recommendations for my post-partum friends (or really any one that has a nasty surgery scar). The benefits are amazing- minimal to no upper shelf and a scar that’s feeling smoother and happier than ever. Now, that’s goals.
These tools are also great for those who are scared to play with their scar. Even as a therapist who works on scars often, when it came to my own, I did not want to even look at it, let alone touch it! (Bonus, this lineup is not just for postpartum moms – anyone with a nasty surgery scar can benefit big time).
Now, let’s talk chat about the line up, from easy-breezy to expert-level:
Ice Roller: This little gem gives good weight and a cooling effect that feels like a dream. Pro tip: don’t use it straight out of the freezer for scars. Let it chill at room temp first for maximum comfort. Better yet, keep it in the fridge, instead of the freezer.
Face Massager: These babies introduce a whole new texture to the scar area, helping with desensitization and tissue mobilization. Plus, they add a little resistance to spice things up and turn it up a notch.
Body Sculptor: Can we talk about a PT’s dream tool? This is like precision in a tool – it’s all about targeting those adhesions and giving you some serious feedback. Trust me, it’s a game-changer.
Butter Brush: When you’re ready to level up, reach for the body brush. Consider this the grand finale, the expert-level player in the lineup. The bristles provide a whole new sensation and work wonders for lymphatic drainage. Say goodbye to puffiness and hello to that smooth, radiant skin.
And a few insider tips:
1. All of these products can get wet! So if your nervous/starting out, use them in the shower for an extra dose of relaxation and ease.
2. Don’t forget to lube up with a good lotion to keep things gliding smoothly with the face massager and body sculptor.
3. Start slow and build up your routine. Use what products/steps work for you. Remember, the goal is 5-10 minutes and it should be comfortable.
My current routine: Before shower- ice roller, massager, dry brush. After shower- get greased up and use the body sculptor.
When is the best time to start this playing with your TSC tools and your scar? Get the green light from your Doctor first at the 6 week post surgery mark, or once your scar if fully healed and closed. BE SURE to check with your own health care provider.
Whether you’re a new mama or just rocking a scar from surgery, these products willvhelp you feel fabulous.
Happy Healing!
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The tools never cease to amaze us. Do you have any ‘unusual’ uses for your beauty tools? Let us know below.
Remember, you can get all of the tools Taylor mentioned for 25% off during our BFCM Early Access Event happening right now.
Be sure to follow Taylor @tayaskel and at @allied.wellness for more Physical Therapy related content.
x, The Skinny Confidential team
+ Check out Lauryn’s immune support toolkit.
++ Learn how Lauryn uses every single tool and product here.
PT-APPROVED TOOLS:
