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Research Study – How Clinical Massage Supports C-Section Scar Healing and Reduces Lumbo-Pelvic Pain

28th Sep 2025

Last year, I conducted a research study exploring how clinical massage therapy can help women recover from C-section scars and reduce lumbo-pelvic pain after childbirth.

Over a 16-week period, participants took part in a combined approach of in-person clinical massage sessions and online interventions designed to support postpartum healing and scar tissue recovery.

The goal of the study was to understand whether targeted massage therapy could improve both physical comfort and long-term recovery outcomes for women after a C-section.

The Rising Rate of Caesarean Sections: What It Means for Mothers

According to the World Health Organization (2021), caesarean sections (C-sections) now account for 1 in 5 births worldwide. While sometimes lifesaving, a C-section is major abdominal surgery involving an incision through the skin, muscle, and uterus to deliver the baby (Gokal, Armstrong & Fashong, 2020).

The Long-Term Impact of C-Sections on Women’s Health

Surgical interventions like C-sections can significantly affect both immediate recovery and long-term health. Research by Daniszewska-Jarząb and Jarząb (2021) highlights how the procedure can cause physical trauma, pain, and emotional challenges.

In fact, a study by Kainu et al. (2010) revealed that persistent pain one year after delivery is more common following a C-section compared to vaginal birth. This lingering discomfort can impact quality of life, mobility, and even mental well-being.

Postpartum Care: A Gap in Long-Term Support

Traditionally, new mothers in the UK receive NHS support for up to six weeks postpartum, focusing mainly on immediate recovery and newborn care. However, long-term care after a C-section remains limited, leaving many women without the resources they need for complete recovery.

With the rising rates of C-sections, there is an urgent need for better postpartum care options, including physical therapy, pain management, and emotional support for mothers recovering from major surgery.

Key findings from the study:

Pain reduction after C-section: Data showed that clinical massage can significantly help reduce pain following a C-section (both old and new scars), improving both physical comfort and overall quality of life for new mothers.
Empowering women through self-care: Teaching self-care techniques for C-section scar management is essential. Equipping women with the right tools allows them to take control of their own recovery and manage pain more effectively at home.
High engagement with online support: Participation was particularly strong in the online sessions, highlighting that women are eager to support their own healing but often need expert guidance to get started.

C-section recovery programme

Whether your scar is old or new, if you are presenting with pain, scar therapy can still help you.

Sessions will include: