Acute burns of the hands – physiotherapy perspective

Abstract

Abstract:Background: Acute burns of the hands are complex and may impact on various aspects of a person's life. Physiotherapy rehabilitation and restoration of hand function is critical for the patient's independence and re-integration into society. Purpose: This study aimed to explore the perceptions and experiences of physiotherapists in the management of patients with their hand burn injuries. Method: Five focus groups consisting of physiotherapists and physiotherapy assistants working with burn injured patients from each of the five selected public hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal were recruited. An explorative qualitative approach was adopted. Results: Physiotherapists emphasised that the acute management of the hand was trivialised due to a primary focus on the survival of the burn sufferer. Therapists identified several factors that determined the patients' level of participation and motivation in therapy one of which was the procedural pain experienced. The role of the therapists' within the rehabilitation framework was found to be critical to their recovery however there appeared to be a breakdown in the collaboration and communication among health care professionals to the detriment of effective intervention. Conclusion: A multidisciplinary team approach is the foundation in the management of acute burn injuries and during the trajectory of the trauma care continuum.

Physiotherapy Approach in Transradial Amputation Following the Sequelae of Electric Burn: A Case Report

“…Physiotherapists who manage those suffering from injuries caused by burns may encounter specific problems and difficulties, as stated by Dunpath et al, since they have to reduce the cause of pain to a person who is already traumatized, nervous, and afraid for the individual to recover from their injuries. Since burn injuries often result in psychological reactions requiring support or psychological therapy, the acute stage of therapy is just as significant for the individual receiving treatment along with the rehabilitation expert [ 17 ]. Pain treatment in patients with burns is a continually changing challenge for the burn care team, as stated by Rohilla et al Pain management in burn patients is associated with physiological and psychological implications.…”

“…Amputations additionally cause long-term socioeconomic consequences for patients and their families, plus increasing rehabilitation procedures [ 16 ]. Maintaining range of motion (ROM), decreasing contracture formation, enhancing function, and fostering psychological well-being and social integration are all made achievable by physiotherapy rehabilitation, which has become a vital component of burn treatment [ 17 ]. Individuals with burns are more susceptible to becoming bedridden from ongoing pain medication, drowsiness, bandaging, and dressing of wounds; hence, it may be advisable for physicians to recommend physiotherapy [ 18 ].…”

Editorial: Updates on communicable and non-communicable diseases in LMICs

“…31 Shehab reports on biochemical response to weight loss in patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. 32 Now to surgery: abdominal wall herniae in females, 33 ocular injuries and eye care among cocoa farmers in Ghana; 34 and acute burns of the hands, 35 give us a taste of surgery in Africa. So do: stapedotomy and its effect on hearing.…”