REHABILITATION APPROACHES IN THE TREATMENT OF BURN INJURIES IN CHILDREN: AN INTERDISCIPLINARY MODEL WITH AN EMPHASIS ON THERAPEUTIC POSITIONS AND THE PATHOGENESIS OF POST-BURN SCAR DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

Topicality. Burn scar contractures are a major source of late morbidity, especially in children who continue to grow long after the burn has healed; they can limit normal growth, leading to secondary deformities. The purpose of the work is to scientifically substantiate and develop treatment positions in the acute period of burn disease, taking into accountthe pathogenesis of the development of a post-burn scar with strict bed rest. Materials and methods. With the help of search databases of the Internet network (PubMed, Google Scholar, PEDro, Scopus, Web of Science), the sources ofscientific information and materials regarding medical positions with strict bed rest, taking into account the pathogenesisof development after burn scars, were analyzed. Research results. Burn rehabilitation should include the followingcomponents: Education of the patient and medical staff regarding rehabilitation; Rehabilitation assessment; Therapeutic positioning; Exercises to improve muscle strength, endurance, balance, coordination, and cardiopulmonary function, as well as to prevent deep vein thrombosis and pressure sores; Splinting to prevent and reduce deformity and to support joint function; Physical therapy to promote wound healing and infection control; Physiotherapy for pathological contractures of hypertrophic scars, limb edema, acute and chronic inflammation, pain, and itching; Comprehensive treatment of pathological scars, such as pressure therapy, massage, stretching, and splinting; Medications to relieve symptoms such as pain, itching, and sleep disorders; Psychological assessment, counseling, and therapy; Monitoring and treatment of nutritional disorders and organ dysfunction. Conclusions. The analysis of current scientific and methodological literature, the generalization of the experience of leading specialists, and the results of our own research indicate that the successful recovery of children after thermal burns depends on properly selected rehabilitation measures-especially during the recovery period - and the adequacy of physical therapy interventions. Therapeutic positioning plays a critically important role in burn rehabilitation. It is not merely a passive measure but an active component of the treatment process.