Make an educational resource - Scar Maturation Timeline: 0-48 hours (minimise burn severity = minimise scar size), 48-72 hours (SSG revascularisation, some ROM, mobilise w/ pressure support to manage oedema, resting splints if required), 3/7- 3/12 (maximise++ AROM, strength, function) 3-6/12 (maintain ROM & strength: collagen changes --> actively contractile, stronger muscles compete w/ scar contractility to maintain ROM)
Education is key for patients understanding the rationale of why exercise is important and also what to expect over the course of their recovery. If a patient is shocked that their ROM is decreasing around 4/12 they may become discouraged and cease exercise and see compounding loss of ROM. However, if patient anticipates change due to increased contractility of collagen and correlational with potential loss of ROM, their expectations may be centred around ROM maintenance rather than improvement during this period.