Key Highlights:

This Presentation featured a case by Mahmoud Zaerian, DC, focusing on the impact of scar tissue on movement and pain, particularly in the context of acupuncture treatment. Dr. Zaerian, a chiropractor with extensive experience in sports medicine, emphasized the importance of understanding scars as potential barriers to movement and sources of pain, especially in athletes.

Dr. Zaerian shared a compelling case of a 49-year-old female patient who, after multiple surgeries for a shoulder injury sustained in a cycling accident, experienced significant limitations in her range of motion and persistent pain. Despite previous treatments, including acupuncture from other practitioners, her condition did not improve until Dr. Zaerian targeted the scar tissue surrounding her surgical site with acupuncture.

Dr. Zaerian explained the physiological mechanisms behind scar tissue formation, highlighting how it can alter the structural integrity of tissues and affect the nervous system, leading to increased sensitivity and pain. He discussed the importance of addressing both the mechanical and neurological aspects of scars, noting that acupuncture can effectively modulate the nervous system and reduce nociceptive input, thereby improving movement capacity and alleviating pain. The treatment involved needling around the scar, which resulted in a remarkable improvement in the patient’s internal rotation and a significant reduction in pain, allowing her to return to swimming and pursue her athletic goals.

Throughout the presentation, Dr. Zaerian underscored the need for healthcare professionals to recognize the implications of scars in their patients’ recovery and rehabilitation processes. He advocated for a systems-based approach to treatment, encouraging practitioners to consider the interconnectedness of bodily systems and the potential for scars to influence overall movement and function. The discussion also included insights into the timing of acupuncture treatment post-surgery, the use of different frequencies for electrical stimulation during needling, and the importance of assessing the health of scar tissue before initiating treatment. Overall, the presentation served as a reminder for healthcare professionals to not overlook the significance of scar management in enhancing patient outcomes and promoting effective rehabilitation strategies.