RuthAnn Fanstone

BSc (Hons) MSc PhD MCSP HCPC

Physiotherapist & Clinical Scar Specialist

Dr. RuthAnn Fanstone is a highly specialist physiotherapist working in scar treatment and rehabilitation. Her expertise for improving scar outcomes began early in her career, working in burns and plastic surgery. Over the past 30 years, she has treated thousands of scars—ranging from the smallest to the most complex injuries. She has a special interest in burn injuries and scars from trauma.

Dr. Fanstone has held leadership roles across the NHS, academia, private practice, education, charitable organisations, and humanitarian settings. Her work has focused on advancing the care and outcomes of people affected by scars. She has pioneered numerous scar-related treatments, services (including The London Scar Clinic), and training programmes both in the UK and globally. Her PhD research and subsequent publications examined the risk factors for burn scar contractures. She is the Managing Editor of Scars, Burns & Healing, a PubMed-listed journal dedicated to advancing evidence-based care. She is a frequent international speaker on the topic of scar management and burn rehabilitation.

Known for her specialised knowledge, empathy, dedication and collaborative approach, Dr. Fanstone is committed to improving outcomes for people with scars and finding solutions for difficult problems. She specialises in scar assessment, scar mobilisation (mechanical and manual), products for scars, and burn and scar rehabilitation. Her treatments improve the look and feel of scars.