Is It Normal to Feel Tightness in Knee Scars When Lifting Legs?

Is it normal to feel tightness in the scar on the knee when lifting the leg?

My knee wounds from the car accident have all scabbed over, but some areas are still red.
I have been consistently applying scar cream and lotion, but the surface is showing wrinkles and peeling.
When I lift my leg, I feel tightness around the scar on my knee.
Is this normal? Will it eventually return to normal sensation without that tight feeling, or would I need to receive corticosteroid injections for improvement? It has only been three months since the accident; is there a chance for improvement?

123, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/11/29

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

It should be normal, as scars have poorer elasticity.

Reply Date: 2018/11/29

More Info

It is quite common to experience tightness or discomfort in the area of knee scars, especially after an injury such as a car accident. The healing process for scars can vary significantly from person to person, and several factors can influence how your scars feel and appear over time.

Firstly, the tightness you are experiencing when lifting your legs is likely due to the formation of scar tissue. When the skin and underlying tissues heal after an injury, they can form fibrous tissue that may not have the same elasticity as the original tissue. This can lead to a sensation of tightness, especially during movements that stretch the skin or underlying muscles. Additionally, the red appearance of the scars indicates that they are still in the healing phase. Scars often go through several stages of healing, and redness can be a sign of increased blood flow to the area as your body works to repair itself.

The wrinkling and peeling of the skin you mentioned can also be part of the normal healing process. As the skin heals, it may become dry or flaky, and the texture can change as new skin forms. Using scar creams or moisturizers, as you are currently doing, can help improve the appearance of the scars and keep the skin hydrated, which is essential for healing.

Regarding your concern about whether the tightness will improve over time, the answer is generally yes. Most scars will continue to mature and soften over time, often taking several months to a year to fully settle. The tightness you feel may gradually decrease as the scar tissue remodels and becomes more flexible. However, the extent of improvement can vary based on individual factors such as age, skin type, and the severity of the injury.

As for the use of corticosteroids, they are sometimes used to treat hypertrophic scars or keloids, which are raised scars that can occur after injury. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before considering this treatment. They can assess your specific situation and determine if corticosteroid injections or other treatments, such as silicone gel sheets or laser therapy, may be appropriate for you.

In summary, feeling tightness in knee scars is a normal part of the healing process, especially three months post-injury. With time, proper care, and possibly additional treatments, you can expect improvement in both the tightness and appearance of your scars. If you have ongoing concerns or if the tightness worsens, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider or a physical therapist who specializes in post-injury rehabilitation. They can provide tailored advice and interventions to help you regain full function and comfort in your knee.

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