Shock Wave Therapy Versus Conventional Physical Therapy for Partial- Thickness Forearm Burn Scars

Status: Recruiting
Location: See location...
Intervention Type: Other
Study Type: Interventional
Study Phase: Not Applicable
SUMMARY

Burn injuries can lead to significant physical and psychological challenges, particularly when they result in scarring. Burn scars can lead to a variety of complications that significantly impact a patient's quality of life1. Physical complications often include restricted range of motion and contractures, which can hinder mobility and daily activities, especially if the scars are located near joints2. Additionally, psychosocial effects such as anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal may arise due to the visible nature of scars and the stigma associated with them3. Functional complications can also manifest, affecting the skin's ability to regulate temperature and moisture, increasing susceptibility to infections, and causing discomfort or pain 4. In some cases, burn scars may develop into hypertrophic scars or keloids, leading to further aesthetic concerns and potential need for medical interventions5. Among the various types of burns, partial thickness burns are particularly concerning due to their potential for hypertrophic scarring and functional limitations6. Effective treatment strategies are essential to manage these scars, promote healing, and improve the quality of life for affected individuals7.

Eligibility
Participation Requirements
Sex: All
Minimum Age: 25
Maximum Age: 55
Healthy Volunteers: f
View:

• adults diagnosed with partial thickness burns on the forearm,

• scars that had been present for a minimum of six months,

• participants capable of providing informed consent

Locations
Other Locations
Egypt
faculty of physical therapy ,Cairo University
RECRUITING
Cairo
Time Frame
Start Date: 2025-10-01
Estimated Completion Date: 2026-02-04
Participants
Target number of participants: 80
Treatments
Experimental: Shock wave
The treatment regimen included 2000 shocks directed to the 10 cm2 scar tissue itself, 1000 shocks to the surrounding soft tissue to promote healing. Pneumatic extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) will administered using the EME Srl device (Via Degli Abeti, Pesaro- Italy) over a series of sessions
Experimental: Traditional Physical Therapy
This included five minutes of passive stretching for the wrist flexors, with therapist assistance, followed by five minutes of active stretching, encouraging patients to engage in movements independently to enhance flexibility and alleviate stiffness. To rebuild strength and functionality in the forearm and hand, the regimen incorporated progressive resistance exercises such as wrist flexion and extension, performed for 20 repetitions per set, two sets per session, three times weekly, using light weights (Vinyl Dumbbell Set, Soft Grips - 2kg, progressing to 3kg, made in China). Grip strengthening exercises were also included, utilizing a guitar finger exercise grip (made in China), with 30 repetitions per set, two sets per day, three times a week.
Related Therapeutic Areas
Sponsors
Leads: MTI University

This content was sourced from clinicaltrials.gov