Have you ever felt a strange, sharp pain near your C-section scar months after giving birth and wondered, is this normal? You’re not alone.

Every year, millions of women around the world undergo C-sections. While it’s a common and often life-saving procedure, what often gets overlooked is the lingering nerve pain that can haunt mothers long after the incision has healed.

At Cure on Call, we’ve worked with countless postpartum women across Faisalabad who’ve described this pain as “burning,” “tingling,” or even “electric shocks” around their scar. And through a blend of physiotherapy, expert-guided exercises, and personalised treatment, we’ve helped them reclaim comfort—and confidence.

This guide isn’t just a list of generic tips. It’s a complete walkthrough of how real women, with real nerve pain, found real relief. Backed by expert physiotherapists, patient experiences, and science that doesn’t expire with the next Google update.

What Causes Nerve Pain After a C-Section?

During a C-section, your surgeon must cut through multiple layers—skin, fat, muscle, and finally the uterus. In the process, small nerves (especially the ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerves) can be irritated, compressed, or even severed.

Most women heal without any issues. But for some, these nerves become hypersensitive or form neuromas (nerve scarring), leading to persistent discomfort that lasts weeks—or even years.

“It felt like I was being poked with hot needles every time I bent over to lift my baby,” recalls Rimsha A., a first-time mum from Faisalabad.

This pain isn’t just physical. It can affect your mood, mobility, bonding with your baby, and overall quality of life.

Signs You Might Be Dealing with Nerve Pain (Not Just Scar Tissue)

• Tingling or burning sensation around or under the scar
• Shooting pain that radiates to the thighs or groin
• Numbness that persists for months
• Pain that worsens when stretching, twisting, or lifting

If you’re nodding along, don’t dismiss it as “normal healing.” It’s nerve pain—and it deserves treatment.

Treatment Options: What Actually Works

1. Targeted Physiotherapy (Our #1 Recommendation)

Our lead physiotherapist at Cure on Call, Ms. Ayesha Iqbal (DPT), explains:

“Most of our C-section recovery patients have nerve-related symptoms. With guided neural mobilisation techniques and pelvic floor therapy, we see improvement within 3–6 weeks in many cases.”

We customise therapy plans that include:

• Scar desensitisation massage to retrain nerves
• Gentle stretching to reduce nerve tension
• Core strengthening to support surrounding muscles

Real Result: One patient who couldn’t sit upright without pain for 4 months saw a 70% reduction in symptoms after just 4 in-home sessions.

2. TENS Therapy (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)

TENS uses low-voltage electrical currents to disrupt nerve pain signals. Many of our home-visit patients love this because:

• It’s non-invasive
• It provides near-instant short-term relief
• It can be used while feeding or resting

Note: TENS should be guided by a physiotherapist to ensure proper pad placement and frequency.

3. Manual Therapy & Myofascial Release

Sometimes, what feels like nerve pain is tension in the surrounding fascia (connective tissue). Our therapists apply gentle pressure techniques to reduce this tension and free up entrapped nerves.

4. Medications: Use with Caution

Your gynaecologist may prescribe medications like:

• Gabapentin or Pregabalin (for nerve pain)
• NSAIDs (like ibuprofen for inflammation)

However, we always recommend these be a last resort—especially for breastfeeding mothers.

What You Can Do at Home: 3 Proven Self-Care Tips

1. Gentle Scar Massage

Start 6 weeks post-surgery (or after doctor clearance):

• Use vitamin E oil or fragrance-free lotion
• Apply light circular motions along the scar
• Spend 5–10 minutes daily

This helps reduce scar adhesion and improve nerve communication.

2. Posture & Ergonomics

Poor posture adds tension to already irritated nerves. When feeding or holding your baby:

• Keep your shoulders relaxed
• Support your lower back with a cushion
• Avoid slouching or standing for too long

3. Use Warm Compresses

Heat increases blood flow and relaxes tight tissues. A warm towel placed over the lower belly for 10–15 minutes can ease discomfort.

When to See a Professional

If your pain:

• Lasts more than 3 months
• Interferes with sleep or daily activities
• Worsens over time

…it’s time to call in help.

At Cure on Call, we offer home-based physiotherapy sessions specifically for post-C-section recovery. Our female therapists bring not only clinical expertise but also compassionate care right to your doorstep.

You don’t have to choose between rest and recovery—we help you get both.

Expert Opinions & Research

• A study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (2020) found that nearly 30% of women reported chronic post-C-section pain three months after delivery.
• Research from NIH highlights the efficacy of physiotherapy in managing post-operative nerve pain, especially using neural mobilisation.

“Women are often told to ‘wait it out,’ but that’s not care—it’s dismissal,” says Dr. Saira Munir, senior physiotherapist and maternal care specialist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does nerve pain last after a C-section?

It varies. Mild cases may resolve in weeks, while others can linger for months or even years without treatment.

Is it normal to feel tingling or burning around the scar?

Yes, but only for a short period. Persistent burning or numbness likely points to nerve involvement.

Can physiotherapy really help?

Absolutely. Our team at Cure on Call has seen transformative results through structured physiotherapy interventions.

Is it safe to take painkillers while breastfeeding?

Some medications are safe, but always consult your doctor. We prioritise non-drug treatments first.

Read Also: How to Treat Nerve Pain from a Blood Draw: A Real Guide from Cureoncall

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Live with the Pain

Recovering from a C-section is hard enough. Add persistent nerve pain, and it can feel overwhelming.

But the good news? Relief is possible—with the right support.

At Cure on Call, we believe in treating the whole mother, not just the scar. Our in-home sessions are designed to restore your comfort, confidence, and quality of life.

Ready to take the first step towards a pain-free recovery? Contact us Now!

We’re just a call away—because your healing shouldn’t wait.

Written by the medical content team at Cure on Call, in collaboration with licensed physiotherapists and postpartum care specialists in Pakistan.