Early Motion and Splinting of Hands following Burns: A Literature Review

Abstract

Burns of the hands may result in the most incapacitating deformities, both functional and esthetic. When acute, these deformities represent postural changes and, as such, are transient, yielding rapidly to corrective measures. Without proper preventative management at this stage, these deformities will become fixed and permanent. This paper seeks to briefly describe the role played by early motion and proper positioning (usually with splints) in the optimal rehabilitation of the burned hand. Rehabilitation begins early after injury, requiring the combined efforts of surgeon, therapist and patient. The discussion of such management is divided into an early and late phase.