What are Burn Contractures?
Burn contractures describe a permanent shortening of burn scar tissue that pulls joints out of position and results in physical impairment.
What Causes Burn Contractures?
Burn contractures may occur after thermal injury. Not every burn results in burn contractures but when burn wounds are left untreated or exposed to dirt, the chances of the condition occuring increases.
- Risk factors for burns: open fire places and open cooking facilities, which are common in developing countries and often placed at toddler level
- Small children are particularly at risk as they are not yet aware of the risks posed by heat and fire and approach these dangers without caution
- Risk factors for inappropriate treatment of wounds: poor hygiene, lack of medical facilities
What Cures Burn Contractures?
Surgery and subsequent skin transplants are used to release the contracture. The treatment should be followed by physiotherapy to stretch the joints.
