Mechanical Receptor-Related Mechanisms in Scar Management: A Review and Hypothesis

Abstract

Background: The physiopathogenesis of proliferative scarring in human skin is not well understood. Furthermore, knowledge of the precise mechanisms of action for physical treatment modalities is limited Compression garments, occlusive/adhesive skin taping, and silicone gel sheets are applied to form an occlusion on the scar surface, reduce tension, and/or increase pressure on the scar itself. The mechanisms by which the external or superficial actions of these treatments cause remission of a protruding scar may be related to mechanoreceptor (nociceptor and cellular mechanoreceptor) responses.