The Recovery Clinic

Specialist post-surgical scar therapy, medical lymphatic drainage and Women’s Health Physiotherapy in Cheshire

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Annabel Allen

Director, Scar & Lymphatic Drainage Therapist

I graduated as a physiotherapist from the University of Salford in 2008, and since then, I’ve dedicated over 16 years to working in the NHS. Throughout my career, I’ve gained extensive experience across various fields of physiotherapy, before finding my true passion in musculoskeletal physiotherapy over a decade ago. It was during this time that I developed a particular interest in oncology physiotherapy, with a focus on breast cancer care and scar management. As well as oncology care, I also specialise in clinical Manual Lymphatic Drainage.

When I’m not working, you’ll find me swimming, practicing reformer Pilates, paddleboarding, or chasing after my two lively children. I live in the heart of Wilmslow, just a stone’s throw from my clinic, which is conveniently located at the end of my garden (it’s cosy, I promise!).

Qualifications

BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy

AACP Approved Acupuncture Therapist

MLD UK Registered Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapist

MCA (Multi-Treppanic Collagen Actuation) Dry Tattooing

Restore Scar Therapist

Health and Care Professions Council Registered (Member number PH89465)

Member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP)

Member of The Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Oncology & Palliative Care (ACPOPC)

Member of MLD UK

A woman with shoulder-length wavy brown hair and light makeup smiling at the camera in front of white window shutters.

Leah Morrow

Clinical Specialist Physiotherapist

I’m passionate about helping women feel strong, confident, and capable in their bodies again. My clinical interests include women’s health, returning to fitness post-partum, and supporting people as they get back to sport after injury. I love working with patients at every stage of their journey, from early rehabilitation right through to building strength, resilience, and confidence for real-life movement and sport.

I’ve gained valuable experience working in an acute orthopaedic setting within the NHS, which has given me a strong foundation in injury management, post-operative rehabilitation, and evidence-based care. I’ve also worked in MSK clinics, supporting people of all ages to return to competitive sport. This blend of experience allows me to combine solid clinical expertise with a practical, person-centred approach that fits around real lives, busy schedules, and individual goals.

Outside of the clinic, I’m a keen horse rider and runner, and a former competitive rower. I understand first-hand the physical and mental challenges that can come with injury, setbacks, or returning to movement after time away, whether that’s after pregnancy, surgery, or a sporting injury. For me, rehab isn’t just about reducing symptoms; it’s about rebuilding trust in your body and restoring confidence in what it can do.

Leah will be based at Core Wellbeing in Mobberley, from 14th April 2026. Click here to book in with Leah.

Qualifications

BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy

Clinical areas of treatment / special interests

Women’s Health, obstetric and post-natal care, returning to sport / exercise, endometriosis management.

Health and Care Professions Council Registered (Member number PH137009)

Member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP)

Treatments are carried out in an East Cheshire Council Registered Premises by fully qualified and fully insured medical professionals.

CONTACT US
Logo of HCPC Registered with the website www.hcpc-uk.org

WHAT MY CLIENTS ARE SAYING

“I’ve seen Annabel 4 times in the past few months for scar massage following breast surgery. The appearance of my scar has dramatically improved and is no longer red, bumpy & painful. I can’t thank her enough for the care and attention she’s given me. ”

“Can’t recommend Annabel enough, visited for c-section scar therapy after an emergency section. After 2 visits I could see a huge difference with the scar visibility and feel I got some sensation back too. Annabel is so knowledgeable and lovely and puts you at ease right away. ”

FAQs

  • If you’re having scar therapy, “it’s a marathon, not a sprint”, and whilst many clients see immediate results, many need to try at least 3 sessions of scar therapy to see results.

    If you’re having MCA Dry Tattooing for scars or stretch marks, you may find that you are thrilled with the results after just one session, but everyone is different. Most people need to have between 3-6 sessions of MCA to get the desired results.

  • You can have MCA Dry Tattooing only once you have completed all of your cancer treatment. If you’re having scar therapy, I am able to do this whilst you’re having cancer treatment.

  • Scar therapy can start as soon as your wounds have healed and your scabs have gone. If you're having radiotherapy, I advise you not to have any manual therapy/massage to the radiation zone for 2 weeks after finishing your radiotherapy treatment. If you’re having c-section scar therapy, I suggest (as a minimum) 6 weeks post-partum, once you’ve had your GP / consultant review.

    If you’re having MCA Dry Tattooing, you need to wait until your scars or stretch marks are white. This can be assessed during a virtual or face t face consultation.

  • Wear loose-fitting and comfortable clothing to your sessions. If you’re having MCA, there may be some blood staining following the session.

  • No! I never charge extra for using the Lymphatouch :)

  • No, we cannot erase scars or stretch marks, although we aim to improve the appearance as much as possible.

    If you’re having MCA for stretch marks, you will find that the treatment will tighten the skin, make the stretch marks slightly darker and therefore less visible.

Follow us on Instagram.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we can use this day as a reminder of how important it is to prioritise women’s health, making sure women have access to the care, support and information they need. When women’s health is s
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we can use this day as a reminder of how important it is to prioritise women’s health, making sure women have access to the care, support and information they need. When women’s health is supported, it has a positive impact on families, communities and future generations. A big thank you to all of our amazing female colleagues working in healthcare for everything you do every day. We’re really proud to work alongside you 🥰 #InternationalWomensDay #IWD2026 #WomensHealth #WomenInHealthcare #HealthcareHeroes
We’re so excited to introduce Leah, our Specialist Women’s Health Physiotherapist 💛 Leah will be based at Core Wellbeing in Mobberley, and online booking is now available! Leah offers expert, compassionate care in: ✨ Specialist Pregnan
We’re so excited to introduce Leah, our Specialist Women’s Health Physiotherapist 💛 Leah will be based at Core Wellbeing in Mobberley, and online booking is now available! Leah offers expert, compassionate care in: ✨ Specialist Pregnancy physiotherapy ✨ Physiotherapy for endometriosis ✨ C-section scar therapy ✨ Pregnancy Massage She is passionate about supporting women through every stage of life, from pregnancy and postnatal recovery to managing complex pelvic health conditions. Her approach is evidence-based, holistic, and tailored to you as an individual. If you’ve been meaning to prioritise your recovery, manage ongoing symptoms, or simply want specialist support from someone who truly understands women’s health, Leah is here to help. You can now book your appointment online (link in bio) 📧 therecoveryclinic@icloud.com #Womenshealth #PelvicHealth #CSectionRecovery #EndometriosisSupport #PregnancyPhysio
Photobiomodulation (PBM) may feel like a new skincare trend, but physiotherapists have used therapeutic light for decades. Originally known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), it’s been used since the 1960s to support wound healing, tissue repa
Photobiomodulation (PBM) may feel like a new skincare trend, but physiotherapists have used therapeutic light for decades. Originally known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), it’s been used since the 1960s to support wound healing, tissue repair, post-surgical recovery, inflammation reduction, and chronic pain. Clinicians consistently observed improved wound healing, improved scar quality, and reduced inflammation. Now referred to as PBM (with Red Light Therapy being a form of PBM) the term reflects how light energy supports cellular function and healing at a mitochondrial level. Today, PBM is used not only in musculoskeletal rehab, but also for post-operative recovery, lymphoedema management, skin integrity, and inflammatory conditions. ✨ We’re pleased to now offer Red Light Therapy at The Recovery Clinic. It can be added to any appointment type to support and enhance your treatment outcomes, always with the goal of optimising your body’s natural healing processes #RedLightTherapy #Photobiomodulation #Physiotherapy #SkinHealth #EvidenceBasedPractice
Chat with me about microneedling whilst I do my own 😀 Results vary per individual. Multiple sessions are usually required. Contraindications include: • Pregnancy • Active acne or infection • Keloid scarring tendency • Blood clotting disorders • Autoimmune flare-ups Clinical consultation required prior to all scar treatments #Microneedling #MCADryTattooing #ScarReduction #StretchMarkReduction
January being the busiest month ever was not on our 2026 bingo card 😳 9 New Patients 27 Returning Patients 16 Clinic Days 47 Appointments Thank you so much to everyone who’s booked in, and rebooked! We’re so grateful! #SmallBusiness #
January being the busiest month ever was not on our 2026 bingo card 😳 9 New Patients 27 Returning Patients 16 Clinic Days 47 Appointments Thank you so much to everyone who’s booked in, and rebooked! We’re so grateful! #SmallBusiness #WomenSupportingWomen #WomenInHealthcare
Real experiences. Real results. So proud to share feedback from patients who’ve trusted us with their care. #PostOpCare #ScarTherapy #CSectionRecovery #LymphaticDrainage #Lipoedema
Real experiences. Real results. So proud to share feedback from patients who’ve trusted us with their care. #PostOpCare #ScarTherapy #CSectionRecovery #LymphaticDrainage #Lipoedema
✨ Scar massage: when it helps ✨ Not every scar needs massage! And that’s completely okay. Scar therapy can be helpful for some people, depending on how a scar feels, moves and responds to load. It may be useful if a scar feels: • tight
✨ Scar massage: when it helps ✨ Not every scar needs massage! And that’s completely okay. Scar therapy can be helpful for some people, depending on how a scar feels, moves and responds to load. It may be useful if a scar feels: • tight or stiff • sensitive, itchy or painful • stuck to deeper tissues • thick or bulky Scar massage gently loads the skin and underlying tissues, which improves comfort and helps support healthy adaptation over time. It’s not about forcing change, but about supporting your body’s natural healing process.
Silicone sheets are commonly used to improve the appearance of scars, especially raised scars like hypertrophic scars and keloid scars. How do they work? 1. Hydration & Moisture Balance Silicone creates an occlusive barrier over the skin, tra
Silicone sheets are commonly used to improve the appearance of scars, especially raised scars like hypertrophic scars and keloid scars. How do they work? 1. Hydration & Moisture Balance Silicone creates an occlusive barrier over the skin, trapping moisture in. 2. Protection Acts as a physical barrier that protects the scar from bacteria, friction, and other irritants, reducing inflammation and further injury. 3. Pressure & Oxygen Regulation Silicone sheets may apply gentle pressure to the scar, which helps to limit blood supply (important in scar overgrowth) and creating an optimal environment for healing. You can start using silicone sheets as soon as your scabs have gone. It’s recommended to use them for 12 hours a day, and there is evidence to suggest they’re best used for 3 months or more! #ScarTherapy #CSectionRecovery #SiliconeScarSheets #PostOpCare
What is MCA Dry Tattooing? MCA (Multitrepanic Collagen Actuation) dry tattooing is a non-pigment, skin rejuvenation treatment that uses a tattoo machine, but with a twist! Instead of implanting ink, we use the device dry to create tiny micro-channe
What is MCA Dry Tattooing? MCA (Multitrepanic Collagen Actuation) dry tattooing is a non-pigment, skin rejuvenation treatment that uses a tattoo machine, but with a twist! Instead of implanting ink, we use the device dry to create tiny micro-channels in the skin. This process stimulates your body’s natural collagen and elastin production, encouraging the skin to heal, smooth, and regenerate itself. ✅ Helps improve: • Scars (acne, surgical, stretch marks) • Wrinkles and fine lines • Skin texture and firmness • Hypopigmentation and burns This treatment is all about harnessing your body’s own ability to restore and renew. No pigments, no fillers - just your body’s natural healing powers! 📍 Want to know if MCA is right for you? DM or book a consultation! #MCAdrytattooing #ScarTreatment #StretchMarkRemoval #Microneedling
Lymphatic drainage… but make it purposeful. This is MLD. #LymphaticDrainage #MLD #Lymphoedema #FillAndFlush #HealthcareProfessional
Healing After a C Section: The Benefits of Scar Therapy Welcoming a new life into the world through a c section is a beautiful experience, but it also comes with a unique healing journey (trust me, I know from personal experience!) . Scar therapy pl
Healing After a C Section: The Benefits of Scar Therapy Welcoming a new life into the world through a c section is a beautiful experience, but it also comes with a unique healing journey (trust me, I know from personal experience!) . Scar therapy plays a crucial role in your recovery, helping to improve both the appearance and comfort of your scar. Here are some benefits of incorporating scar therapy into your postpartum care routine: 1️⃣ Reduces Scar Visibility: Scar therapy can help to soften and flatten your c section scar, making it less noticeable over time. 2️⃣ Reduces Discomfort: Regular scar massage and the use of specialist scar oils, creams or silicone sheets can reduce tightness, itching, and discomfort in the scar area. 3️⃣ Promotes Skin Elasticity: Scar therapy encourages healthy skin regeneration and improves elasticity, which can help prevent adhesions and tightness around the scar tissue. 4️⃣ Boosts Confidence: Scar therapy can help you feel more confident about your body after birth. 5️⃣ Supports Mobility: Proper scar care can improve tissue flexibility, which is vital for mobility, especially around your abdomen and pelvis. Have you tried scar therapy after your c section? Share your experience in the comments! #PostpartumRecovery #CSectionRecovery #ScarTherapy #MumLife #SelfCare BodyPositivity
Just because it feels good… doesn’t mean it’s lymphatic 🤍 Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is often misunderstood. A lot of what you see online looks relaxing, but true MLD is very specific, very gentle, and very intentional. ✨ M
Just because it feels good… doesn’t mean it’s lymphatic 🤍 Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is often misunderstood. A lot of what you see online looks relaxing, but true MLD is very specific, very gentle, and very intentional. ✨ MYTH 1: MLD uses oils True MLD is performed on dry skin. Why? Because lymphatic vessels sit just beneath the skin, and we need a gentle stretch of the skin to stimulate them. Oils create slip, which is great for a relaxing massage, not ideal for lymphatic work. ✨ MYTH 2: Deeper pressure = better results MLD uses feather-light pressure. If it feels deep, intense, or sore the next day, you’ve likely moved into muscular massage territory, not lymphatic drainage. ✨ MYTH 3: MLD will instantly make you look slimmer While some people notice short-term changes after a session, especially if lymphoedema or post-operative swelling is present, true Manual Lymphatic Drainage is not a quick fix or a body-shrinking treatment (also, let’s debunk those before and after photos. The ‘after’ photo is usually taken with the patients arms above their head!) MLD works by gently supporting your lymphatic system over time, helping reduce congestion, improve circulation, and support the body’s natural detox pathways. ✨ MYTH 4: All lymphatic massage is the same Not all techniques labeled “lymphatic” are true MLD. Certified MLD follows precise rhythms, directions, and pressure to work with the lymphatic system, not against it. ✨ MYTH 5: You can “drain” lymph anywhere, anytime MLD follows a very specific sequence. We always clear central pathways first before moving fluid from more distal areas. Random strokes = confused lymph. ✨ The takeaway: What feels indulgent isn’t always what’s therapeutic. And when it comes to your lymphatic system, less pressure + more precision = better results. #PostopCare #LymphaticDrainage #MLD #ScarTherapy
We’ve grown, and our name reflects it. The Scar Spa is now The Recovery Clinic. What started as specialised scar therapy has evolved into full-spectrum post-operative care, supporting the body through every stage of healing. From lymphatic d
We’ve grown, and our name reflects it. The Scar Spa is now The Recovery Clinic. What started as specialised scar therapy has evolved into full-spectrum post-operative care, supporting the body through every stage of healing. From lymphatic drainage and scar therapy to red light therapy, microneedling, and MCA scar & stretchmark reduction; this is recovery, redefined. Same expertise. Expanded care. Welcome to The Recovery Clinic.
Lymphatic Drainage. Scar Therapy. Red Light Therapy. Microneedling. Scar & Stretchmark Reduction.
Lymphatic Drainage. Scar Therapy. Red Light Therapy. Microneedling. Scar & Stretchmark Reduction.
Post-operative care, redefined.
Post-operative care, redefined.
What is MCA Dry Tattooing? MCA (Multitrepanic Collagen Actuation) dry tattooing is a non-pigment, skin rejuvenation treatment that uses a tattoo machine — but with a twist! 🌀 Instead of implanting ink, we use the device dry to create tiny micro-channels in the skin. This process stimulates your body’s natural collagen and elastin production, encouraging the skin to heal, smooth, and regenerate itself. 💫 ✅ Helps improve: • Scars (acne, surgical, stretch marks) • Wrinkles and fine lines • Skin texture and firmness • Hypopigmentation and burns This treatment is all about harnessing your body’s own ability to restore and renew. No pigments, no fillers — just your natural beauty, reactivated. 💉✨ 📍 Want to know if MCA is right for you? DM or book a consultation! #MCAdrytattooing #SkinHealing #ScarTreatment #StretchMarkRemoval #CollagenBoost #SkinRejuvenation #NaturalSkincare #Microneedling #TattooSkincare #SkinConfidence
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we can use this day as a reminder of how important it is to prioritise women’s health, making sure women have access to the care, support and information they need. When women’s health is s We’re so excited to introduce Leah, our Specialist Women’s Health Physiotherapist 💛 Leah will be based at Core Wellbeing in Mobberley, and online booking is now available! Leah offers expert, compassionate care in: ✨ Specialist Pregnan Photobiomodulation (PBM) may feel like a new skincare trend, but physiotherapists have used therapeutic light for decades. Originally known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), it’s been used since the 1960s to support wound healing, tissue repa
Chat with me about microneedling whilst I do my own 😀 Results vary per individual. Multiple sessions are usually required. Contraindications include: • Pregnancy • Active acne or infection • Keloid scarring tendency • Blood c
January being the busiest month ever was not on our 2026 bingo card 😳 9 New Patients 27 Returning Patients 16 Clinic Days 47 Appointments Thank you so much to everyone who’s booked in, and rebooked! We’re so grateful! #SmallBusiness # Real experiences. Real results. So proud to share feedback from patients who’ve trusted us with their care. #PostOpCare #ScarTherapy #CSectionRecovery #LymphaticDrainage #Lipoedema ✨ Scar massage: when it helps ✨ Not every scar needs massage! And that’s completely okay. Scar therapy can be helpful for some people, depending on how a scar feels, moves and responds to load. It may be useful if a scar feels: • tight Silicone sheets are commonly used to improve the appearance of scars, especially raised scars like hypertrophic scars and keloid scars. How do they work? 1. Hydration & Moisture Balance Silicone creates an occlusive barrier over the skin, tra What is MCA Dry Tattooing? MCA (Multitrepanic Collagen Actuation) dry tattooing is a non-pigment, skin rejuvenation treatment that uses a tattoo machine, but with a twist! Instead of implanting ink, we use the device dry to create tiny micro-channe
Lymphatic drainage… but make it purposeful. This is MLD. #LymphaticDrainage #MLD #Lymphoedema #FillAndFlush #HealthcareProfessional
Healing After a C Section: The Benefits of Scar Therapy Welcoming a new life into the world through a c section is a beautiful experience, but it also comes with a unique healing journey (trust me, I know from personal experience!) . Scar therapy pl Just because it feels good… doesn’t mean it’s lymphatic 🤍 Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is often misunderstood. A lot of what you see online looks relaxing, but true MLD is very specific, very gentle, and very intentional. ✨ M We’ve grown, and our name reflects it. The Scar Spa is now The Recovery Clinic. What started as specialised scar therapy has evolved into full-spectrum post-operative care, supporting the body through every stage of healing. From lymphatic d Lymphatic Drainage. Scar Therapy. Red Light Therapy. Microneedling. Scar & Stretchmark Reduction. Post-operative care, redefined.
What is MCA Dry Tattooing? MCA (Multitrepanic Collagen Actuation) dry tattooing is a non-pigment, skin rejuvenation treatment that uses a tattoo machine — but with a twist! 🌀 Instead of implanting ink, we use the device dry to create tiny mi