Physiotherapy in the Treatment of Burn Injury. Literature Review

Abstract

Background. The incidence of burns is associated with a long period of treatment and disability. Burn trauma due to a hypermetabolic response impairs many bodily functions and manifests itself in a decrease in muscle mass and muscle strength, the development of contractures. The application of physiotherapy has been found to increase physical capacity, muscle strength, improve body composition and quality of life.The aim of the study was to analyse the scientific literature on the effects of burn trauma on various body systems and efficacy of physiotherapy in patients with burn injury.Methods. Literature review of was carried out. Data were collected from databases PubMed, ScienceDirect, ClinicalKey. Articles published between 2009 and 2020 were searched with the following keywords: burn injury, physiotherapy, exercises, muscle strength, rehabilitation. Thirty-six articles related to the topic were selected and analysed. Results. One of the most important steps in rehabilitation after a burn injury is exercises used to restore the range of movements in the joints, increase muscle strength and endurance, prevention of thromboembolic complication, restore physical and psychological health. Physiotherapy is applied in all phases of the treatment of burns, but the exercises used in the examined articles are diverse: exercises to increase mobility, strength, endurance, range of motion. Exercises with virtual reality, diaphragmatic breathing and music therapy are used to reduce pain. Prevention of contractures includes treatment with position and splints.Conclusion. Exercises is the main and safe physiotherapy tool in all periods after a burn injury treatment to improve muscle strength, physical capacity, overall body function, lean body mass, and does not adversely affect the hypermetabolic response.

Keywords: burn injury, physiotherapy, exercises, muscle strength, rehabilitation.