Yes, a scar can hurt. Even after a wound has completely healed, the scar tissue itself can cause pain or discomfort. This is not uncommon.
Why Scars Can Hurt
Several factors contribute to scar pain:
-
Nerve damage: Injury to nerves during the initial wound can lead to ongoing pain. The scar tissue itself can also put pressure on nerves, causing pain. This is frequently cited as a cause of surgical scar pain. (Source: It is not uncommon for a surgical scar to hurt after an incision is healed. Scar tissue forms after surgery to heal a wound and can form internally or externally. This scar tissue can often cause pain due to a variety of reasons including an injury to the nerve.)
-
Skin tightness: Scar tissue can be tighter and less elastic than normal skin. This tightness can pull on surrounding tissues and cause pain or discomfort. (Source: Scar tissue may cause pain in several ways. Sometimes, the pain is due to skin tightness, which may make it more…)
-
Internal scar tissue: Scar tissue isn't always visible on the skin's surface. Internal scar tissue, like that from surgery, can cause pain and discomfort. (Source: It is not uncommon for a surgical scar to hurt after an incision is healed. Scar tissue forms after surgery to heal a wound and can form internally or externally. This scar tissue can often cause pain due to a variety of reasons including an injury to the nerve.)
-
Underlying conditions: In some cases, pain associated with a scar may be related to an underlying medical condition. (Source: Scar tissue can also become painful over the course of an internal disease. The amount of pain can also vary based on the severity of the…)
-
Chronic pain: In some individuals, scar pain can become chronic, lasting for months or even years after the initial injury. (Source: Chronic c-section scar pain, defined as pain continuing beyond 3 months postpartum, occurs in up to 25% of people who have a cesarean birth.)
Types of Scar Pain
Scar pain can manifest in various ways, ranging from a mild itch to severe, persistent pain.
- Mild discomfort: A dull ache or slight tenderness.
- Sharp pain: A stabbing or shooting pain, often radiating from the scar.
- Burning sensation: A persistent burning feeling over the scar tissue.
- Itching: Intense itching around the scar area.
It's important to consult a healthcare professional if you experience significant or persistent scar pain.
