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IMPACT OF ACUTE CARE PHYSIOTHERAPY IN A BURN PATIENT: A CASE REPORT

Akhil Kumar G, MPT 1 ST YEAR, Sapthagiri Institute of Physiotherapy-Bangalore

Prof. Sridhar A – Principal & HOD, Sapthagiri Institute of Physiotherapy

Gloriya Raju – Lecturer, Sapthagiri Institute of Physiotherapy

Abstract

Background: Burn is a devastating condition which has a very high incidence of

disability this often associated with many occupations, household activities etc. that involves

fire, electricity and other physical agents. Burns require multidisciplinary approach that

includes plastic surgeon, general physician, general surgeon, nursing and physiotherapist.

Physiotherapists focuses on prevention of contracture and deformity. This study specifies the

physiotherapy approach for acute burn patient.

Methodology: A case report.

Case description: A 35-year-old female was admitted to the hospital with a gasoline

explosion during cooking in the kitchen which, led to a burn in the face, neck, upper limb,

upper chest, back and had some minor blisters in the abdomen also had an inhalational injury,

sparing the lower limb. Percentage of the burn noted to be about 45%.

Analysis and result: The pain assessment documented using numerical pain rating scale.

Goniometer and inch tape range of motion of shoulder joint and oral movements were

documented respectively on day one and day seven. The functional impact was assessed

using Barthel index and, it showed drastic changes between day one to day seven. There is a

marked improvements in the range of motion and functional independence after the

physiotherapy and medical treatment.

Conclusion: The study concluded that early physiotherapy assessment and physiotherapy

intervention led to increase shoulder range of motion and oral movements.

Key words: Burns, physiotherapy, acute burn care, Barthel index, deformity prevention.