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Burn Rehabilitation

Burn rehabilitation is intensive multidisciplinary care to prevent contractures, manage scars and restore function and quality of life after thermal injury.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department. Book Appointment →

What is Burn Rehabilitation?

Burn rehabilitation is the comprehensive multidisciplinary process beginning on the day of admission and continuing for years after major burns. It addresses physical, psychological, vocational and social consequences of burn injury.

Goals are prevention of contractures, scar management, restoration of mobility and strength, treatment of pruritus and pain, psychological recovery, return to work and school, and reintegration into family and community life.

The team includes burn surgeon, physiatrist, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, orthotist, psychologist, dietitian, social worker, peer counsellor and reconstructive plastic surgeon for late deformity correction.

Phases: acute (first 72 hours, focused on resuscitation and survival), intermediate (wound healing, contracture prevention, early mobilisation), and long-term (scar maturation, reconstructive surgery, vocational rehabilitation).

Symptoms

Hypertrophic scarring, contracture, keloid formation
Joint stiffness and decreased range of motion
Muscle weakness, deconditioning, decreased exercise tolerance
Pruritus, neuropathic pain, hypersensitivity
Heat intolerance and impaired thermoregulation in extensive burns
Body image distress, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder
Functional limitations: dressing, bathing, work, leisure activities

Risk Factors

Burn size (>20% TBSA significantly increases complication risk)
Burn depth (third-degree burns and below skin grafts more contracture-prone)
Joint involvement and burn over flexor surfaces
Delayed wound healing, infection and graft loss
Older age, diabetes, malnutrition, smoking
Inhalation injury and prolonged ICU stay
Lack of access to early structured rehabilitation

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Increasing pain, redness, drainage from wound or graft — possible infection
  • New or worsening joint stiffness — requires intensified physiotherapy
  • Severe pruritus or neuropathic pain — pharmacological intervention
  • Persistent depression, flashbacks or social withdrawal — psychiatric care
  • Functional limitations interfering with daily activities — multidisciplinary review

Treatment Methods

01
Splinting in anti-deformity position 24/7 initially, gradually reducing as skin matures
02
Active and passive range of motion, scar massage, stretching multiple times daily
03
Pressure garments worn 23 hours/day for 12–18 months to reduce hypertrophic scar
04
Silicone gel sheets and creams as adjunct scar management
05
Strengthening, aerobic conditioning and graded return to function and work
06
Itch management: emollients, antihistamines, gabapentin, laser therapy
07
Psychological therapy (CBT, EMDR for PTSD), peer support, vocational rehabilitation

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.