What is the dynamic movement that occurs at the edge of a scar known as?

The dynamic movement that occurs at the edge of a scar is referred to as scar contraction. This process involves the tightening or shortening of the scar tissue as part of the body's natural healing response. When a wound heals, myofibroblasts, which are specialized cells that develop in the healing tissue, pull the edges of the scar closer together. This contraction is essential for reducing the size of the scar and improving the overall appearance and function of the healed area.

Scar contraction typically occurs after the initial inflammatory phase of healing and is part of the remodeling stage, where collagen is reorganized to stabilize the scar. This movement can also influence the range of motion in adjacent joints or tissues, depending on the location and severity of the scar. Understanding scar contraction is important in physical therapy, as it can help guide interventions aimed at minimizing adhesions and improving mobility after an injury.