In May 2019, post-traumatic physiotherapy began for a patient with over 60% burns from a work-related accident. This case study explores the use of the LymphaTouch device to treat scar tissue from extensive skin grafts, significantly improving skin texture and finger mobility.
By December 2020, LymphaTouch treatment commenced, resulting in enhanced range of motion and better daily functionality. The account, shared by Ilkka Heikkilä, an occupational health physiotherapist, highlights the device’s effectiveness in burn rehabilitation.
Scar Tissue Challenges
The user experience of the LymphaTouch device is related to scar tissue formation caused by skin grafts (own and artificial skin), and treatment of lack in the range of motion caused by it. The burns dorsally on the hands were extensive and required therefore many skin grafts and artificial skin. The flexion of the fingers was constrained, fingertips reached approx. 6 cm from the palm. Active movement was possible, but the tension in the scar tissue restrained both active and passive movement. The scar tissues on the back of the hands were very rough.
Progress & Improvements throughout Treatment
Between May 2019 and November 2020, the physiotherapy of the hands was moderate mobilisation due to the thinness of the skin. By December 2020, the skin had strengthened enough to start treatment with LymphaTouch. The device was used as a pre-treatment initially at 80 mmHg with pulsating 35 mm treatment cup. Physiotherapy was once a week.
After only a few treatments, the patient’s spouse had noticed smoother skin. Although this was not the main achievement of physiotherapy, it was still an important observation. After the treatments, the range of motion of the fingers began to improve, and a steady increase in negative pressure up to 120 mmHg combined with mechanical vibration was achieved.
With the help of physiotherapy and LymphaTouch, the range of movement was increased. Left-hand finger flexion was achieved to reach approx. 1 cm from the palm and the limitation of the movement doesn’t significantly affect the activities of daily living. The right hand fingers have less flexion due to more abundant scar tissue, but finger functionality has returned; skin elasticity and flexibility of the scar tissue allows smooth use of tools and everyday activities.
About LymphaTouch
LymphaTouch treatment promotes oxygenation and lymphatic drainage of the treated area, which can contribute to wound healing and prevent adhesions. The device treatment can be started on the day of surgery. LymphaTouch offers an effective and comfortable way to treat both fresh and older scars.
Generally, the negative pressure and mechanical vibration of the LymphaTouch device can effectively soften fibrotic and scar tissue adhesions, improving tissue elasticity, flexibility and joint range of motion.
For more information on how you can use LymphaTouch in your scar treatment procedures, visit our page now: https://bmec.asia/my/lymphatouch
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