Protecting Your Skin Through Physiotherapy
When most people think about skin protection, thoughts of daily skin regimens come to mind, as well as protection from environmental irritants, such as ultraviolet (UV) rays or pollutants. However, an injury, accident, burn, circulatory problem, surgical procedure, chronic condition (e.g., diabetes), or remaining stationary for prolonged periods (e.g., bed rest) often necessitate enhanced skin protection.
After sustaining a wound, physiotherapy can support the healing process through specific techniques that reduce inflammation, promote wound recovery, inhibit scar tissue development/ thickening and lower the risk of wound-related complications. A physiotherapy regimen can also help individuals regain their mobility, range of motion, and strength during the wound recovery phase. A scar can impede one from regaining functional range of motion if adhesions develop under and in the area of the scar. For individuals at an increased risk of developing pressure ulcers, for example, due to mobility issues or being in a stationary position for too long (e.g., bed rest), physiotherapy can help prevent wound development or accelerate healing if a wound develops.
Although a wound care specialist may provide the main form of treatment and pain management following major tissue damage, a physiotherapist can provide beneficial interventions that help improve conventional treatment outcomes. Helpful approaches include:
- Manual therapy
- Repositioning
- Therapeutic exercises
- Electrical stimulation
- Ultrasound therapy
- Wound care dressing assistance
- Pressure relief techniques
These techniques help reduce swelling, reinforce tissue healing, and boost circulation to the affected region. Adhering to the physiotherapy plan can also help target pain that is caused by the wound, which can improve mobility and quality of life.
Guided exercise is particularly important, as restricted movement hinders the healing process, reduces blood flow, and increases the risk of complications. Physiotherapists employ targeted therapeutic exercises that direct oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to damaged tissue, which supports tissue repair.
In addition to offering techniques that promote healing and protect the area from further injury, physiotherapy approaches can help minimize excessive scarring that may cause pain, help reduce the development of tissue adhesions below the scar, improve scar mobility, itchiness, and disfiguration. Additionally, a physiotherapist can help identify underlying problems that may contribute to the development of certain types of skin damage (e.g., pressure ulcer), such as improper posture, poor positioning, or reduced mobility. Addressing these types of issues can improve tissue repair and prevent the occurrence of future skin injuries.
A wound care specialist is typically the primary provider for skin care management after sustaining a major wound, but a physiotherapist can offer adjuvant treatment that helps speed up healing and improve overall well-being for people suffering from persistent skin issues. Research even suggests that physiotherapy is emerging as a well-known, safe, complementary approach to the clinical management of wound healing and scarring. Furthermore, for individuals who anticipate the development of certain wounds (e.g., surgical), physiotherapy can offer preventive skin protection through clinically supported techniques.
If you sustained a serious wound and need assistance with skin protection, a physiotherapist can provide individualized treatment and recommend targeted exercises that support healing. If you’re worried about the development of surgical or pressure wounds, Emerald Hills Physio & Sports Clinic is ready to discuss a treatment plan that will meet your specific needs. Our physiotherapists are experts at offering prescribed activities, hands-on care, and patient education on skin health maintenance. Contact Emerald Hills Physio & Sports Clinic in Sherwood Park today to speak with one of our specialists.
References
- Fernandez-Guarino M, Bacci S, Gonzalez LAP, et al. The role of physical therapies in wound healing and assisted scarring. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(8):7487.
- Palmieri B, Vadalà M, Laurino C. Electromedical devices in wound healing management: A narrative review. J Wound Care. 2020;29:408-418.
- Polak A, Taradaj J, Nawrat-Szoltysik A, et al. Reduction of pressure ulcer size with high-voltage pulsed current and high-frequency ultrasound: A randomised trial. J. Wound Care 201;25:742-754.
Kloth L. The roles of physical therapists in wound management: Part IV. J AM Col Certif Wound Spec. 2009;1(4):106-108.