The Recovery Clinic

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

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.

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.

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Adenomyosis is real, common, and too often overlooked. If you’ve ever been told your pain is “normal”, please know it’s not something you just have to live with 💛 Pelvic health physiotherapy won’t “fix” adenomyosis itself, but it can be a powerful part of managing your symptoms and helping you feel more in control. Because it’s not just heavy or painful periods… It can impact your mental health, relationships, daily life, and overall wellbeing. Symptoms might include: 🔴 Heavy or prolonged bleeding 🔴 Severe period pain 🔴 Ongoing pelvic pain 🔴 Pain during sex And one thing we see often? A cycle of pain → muscle tension → more pain. This is where pelvic floor physio can really help ✨ Working with a specialist can support you to: ✨ Release overactive pelvic floor muscles ✨ Reduce pain and improve comfort ✨ Learn breathing + nervous system regulation ✨ Build confidence with movement and exercise It’s about working with your body, not against it. If you’re struggling with symptoms like these, you don’t have to navigate it alone 🤍 You can book in with Leah, our specialist pelvic health physio, at Core Wellbeing in Mobberley for expert assessment and personalised care. Link in bio. #adenomyosis #pelvichealth #womenshealthuk #pelvicfloorphysio #periodpain

Your C Section questions: answered ✔️ Still curious? Drop your questions in the comments below - no such thing as TMI here👇 #CSectionAwareness #ScarTherapy #WomensHealthPhysio #CSectionRecovery

✨ April is C-Section Awareness Month ✨ A caesarean section is major abdominal surgery that can affect the body long after birth. Scar tissue, altered sensation, tightness, and changes in core function are all common, and appropriate postnatal care can make a significant difference to recovery. Throughout April, we’re offering 10% off all Initial C-section scar therapy appointments with Leah at @core_wellbeing in Mobberley. Scar therapy can help improve tissue mobility, reduce discomfort, support core recovery, and help you better understand your body after surgery. Appointments are already booking up quickly, so if you’ve been thinking about getting your scar assessed, now is a good time to book. The 10% discount will be applied when card payment is made immediately following the session. #CSectionAwarenessMonth #CSectionRecovery #ScarTherapy #PostnatalRecovery #CSectionScar

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, and as it comes to an end we wanted to highlight something many people don’t realise: physiotherapy can play a huge role in endometriosis care and recovery. Physio isn’t just about exercise 🏃‍♀️ it can support people with endometriosis through rehabilitation, surgery recovery, and long-term pain management. ✨ Rehabilitation & post-surgical recovery After laparoscopic surgery or excision procedures, physiotherapy can help restore movement, reduce tension in surrounding tissues, and safely rebuild strength. ✨ Scar therapy Scar tissue can affect mobility, sensitivity, and even contribute to ongoing pain. Targeted scar therapy techniques can improve tissue mobility and help the body heal more comfortably. ✨ Pelvic floor rehabilitation Many people with endometriosis develop pelvic floor tension or dysfunction due to chronic pain. Pelvic physiotherapy can help retrain these muscles, improving symptoms like pelvic pain, painful intercourse, bladder or bowel issues. ✨ Pain management Through education, movement strategies, breathing work, and nervous system regulation, physiotherapy can help people better manage persistent pain and feel more in control of their bodies. Endometriosis care should never be one-size-fits-all. A multidisciplinary approach, including physiotherapy, can make a real difference in quality of life. 📍 Specialist Endometriosis support is offered by Leah at @core_wellbeing in Mobberley, Cheshire #EndometriosisAwareness #EndometriosisSupport #PelvicHealthPhysio #PelvicPhysiotherapy #EndometriosisRecovery WomensHealthPhysio

Things I wish someone had told me to do with my C-section scar… (8+ years later) This scar helped me birth my son… who weighed a whopping 9lb 14oz! 🤍 Here are a few things I wish someone had told me back then: 1️⃣ Numbness is normal Many people experience numbness from the scar up towards the belly button. This happens because small nerves are affected during surgery. A gentle technique that can help is light brushing with your knuckles just above the scar to gradually stimulate sensation and help the nerves reconnect. 2️⃣ Scar massage can really help Once the scabs have gone and there are no signs of infection, you can start gentle scar massage. Start dry (no oils or creams): Use your fingertips to make small “C-shaped” movements above, below, and directly over the scar. Then you can progress to using oil: Massage your lower tummy first, then the scar itself using small circular movements. 3️⃣ Love your body 🫶🏼 Your body carried and birthed your baby. Stretch marks, scars, shelves - they all tell a story. Be proud of what your body has done 💪 If you’d like help with C-section recovery, scar therapy, or postpartum rehabilitation, we’re here for you. 📍Based in Wilmslow & Mobberley, Cheshire #csectionrecovery #scartherapy #womenshealthphysio #csectionawarenessmonth #postpartumrecovery

Spotlight on The Lymphatouch We’re proud to offer this amazing treatment to our patients at both our Wilmslow & Mobberley clinics. Comment with any questions you have and we’ll answer them all! Booking links in bio. #CSectionScarTherapy #Lymphatouch #WomensHealth #PostPartumRecovery #OncologyPhysiotherapy

How can physiotherapy help during pregnancy? Pregnancy brings lots of changes to your body, and physiotherapy can help you stay comfortable, strong, and prepared for birth. Here are a few ways it can help: ✨ Reduce aches & pains – support for back, hip, and pelvic pain (including pelvic girdle pain). ✨ Pelvic floor support – learn how to properly strengthen the muscles that support your bladder, bowel, and uterus. ✨ Core & posture guidance – protect your abdominal muscles and improve posture as your bump grows. ✨ Safe exercise advice – stay active with pregnancy-safe strength, mobility, and stretching. ✨ Birth preparation – breathing techniques, labour positions, and pelvic mobility. ✨ Postnatal recovery – prepare your body for healing and returning to exercise after birth. ✨ Book in with our specialist women’s health physio, Leah, who will be working at @core_wellbeing in Mobberley. Link in bio. #PregnancyWellness #PregnancyPhysio #PelvicFloorHealth #PregnancySupport #WomensHealthPhysio

✨ C-Section Awareness Month Giveaway ✨ April is nearly here, and April is also C-Section Awareness Month. To help support recovery after birth, we’re giving away a C-section scar therapy session with red light therapy, worth £120. This specialist physiotherapy session is designed to help support scar mobility, comfort, and recovery following a caesarean birth. 💛 How to enter: 1️⃣ Follow @recoveryclinic.uk 2️⃣ Like this post 3️⃣ Optional - Tag or share with someone who’s recently had a C Section or is expecting a baby in the next few months 📅 Entries close: 31st March 🏆 Winner announced: 1st April You’re welcome to enter for yourself or on behalf of someone who may benefit from the session. Please note: • The session will be carried out by a qualified physiotherapist. • The giveaway is for one C-section scar therapy appointment including red light therapy at The Recovery Clinic, Wilmslow. • The session may not be suitable for everyone and will be subject to a physiotherapy assessment. • This giveaway is not affiliated with Instagram. #CSectionAwarenessMonth #CSectionRecovery #PostnatalRecovery #ScarTherapy #WomensHealthPhysio

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 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 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 #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

✨ 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, 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

The Recovery Clinic

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

Annabel Allen

Director, Scar & Lymphatic Drainage Therapist

Qualifications

Leah Morrow

Clinical Specialist Physiotherapist

Qualifications

Clinical areas of treatment / special interests

“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

How many sessions will I need?

Can you treat me if I have a cancer diagnosis?

When can I start MCA or scar therapy?

What should I wear for my sessions?

Is there an extra charge for Lymphatouch treatment?

Will my scar or stretch marks disappear?

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