​

​MSTR® (McLoughlin Scar Tissue Release®) is a specialised manual therapy technique designed to reduce the restrictive effects of scar tissue, adhesions, and fibrosis. Using gentle, precisely applied finger movements, MSTR® helps improve mobility, flexibility, and function in areas affected by scarring. By enhancing fascial glide, circulation, and neural communication, the technique supports better biomechanics and overall wellbeing.

 

MSTR® is part of a larger body of work created by Alastair McLoughlin. This is called 'The Art of Bodywork®' - details of which can be viewed HERE and HERE.

​

Many people don’t realise that scars, whether from surgery, injury, trauma, or burns, can cause pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion, and even internal dysfunction. MSTR® offers a safe, effective, and non-invasive method for treating these common but often overlooked issues.

​

How MSTR® Works:

Although MSTR® is based on a single core manual technique, its application is highly adaptive. Every scar behaves differently, so the practitioner adjusts the method according to the individual’s tissue response, comfort level, and the characteristics of the scar.

​

Key features of how MSTR® is applied:

• Gentle, controlled manual pressure targeted specifically at scar tissue

• Adjustments in pressure, depth, rhythm, and duration based on moment-to-moment tissue feedback

• Different approaches for different scar types including surgical scars, C-section scars, traumatic scars, burn scars, and post-infection scars

• Consideration of location and sensitivity: facial scars, abdominal scars, spinal scars, and joint-related scars each require unique handling

• Attention to emotional and neurological responses, ensuring comfort and safety at all times

Because MSTR® is so responsive to real-time tissue change, it is both precise and deeply personalised. This makes it especially effective for long-standing or complex scars where other treatments may have little impact.

​

Why Scar Tissue Matters:

Scar tissue can disrupt:

• Fascial movement and mobility

• Muscle activation patterns

• Joint function

• Organ mobility

• Blood and lymphatic flow

• Neural communication

Left untreated, scars may contribute to pain, stiffness, restricted movement, and compensatory patterns elsewhere in the body. MSTR® helps restore healthier tissue behaviour, encouraging improved movement and comfort. Read more...

​

Research Findings on MSTR®:

Early research, including ultrasound imaging studies on Caesarean section (C-section) scars, shows measurable improvement following MSTR® treatment. Documented changes include:

• Reduction in scar tissue thickness and depth

• Increased blood flow (vascularity) around the scar

• Improved circulation within the scar itself

These findings suggest that MSTR® helps release densely bound collagen fibres, improving tissue hydration, elasticity, and circulation. Read more...

​

Benefits of MSTR® Scar Release Technique:

People seek MSTR® for a wide range of reasons, including:

• Reduced tightness and restriction

• Improved range of motion

• Greater comfort and ease of movement

• Enhanced scar appearance and texture

• Better functional integration of affected tissues

• Support for rehabilitation after surgery or injury

Because MSTR® is non-invasive, gentle, and adaptable, it is suitable for scars of all ages—from recent (professionally cleared) surgical scars to decades-old traumatic scars. Read more...

​

In Summary:

MSTR® is a precise, adaptable, and highly effective method of manual scar tissue release. By addressing scar-related restrictions directly, it offers meaningful improvements in mobility, comfort, and function. For practitioners, it provides a reliable and sophisticated technique; for clients, it offers a safe and powerful way to restore ease and wellbeing in areas affected by scarring. For healthcare professionals...Read more.

​