In the early stages, post-wound healing scars are extremely active and dynamic and the contractile force is at its highest. If the burn is close to or over a joint, it must be stretched to avoid loss of ROM and to prevent a post-burn contracture developing. Preventative and maintenance exercises and splinting programs, employed prior to the development of contractures, are crucial to preserving required functional soft tissue length and glide.[4] Stretching of affected joints several times a day to their maximum functional range, in conjunction with a splinting regime appears to help elongate the scar tissue maintaining ROM. However, if compliance of this regime is not maintained often over many months then the scar will once again contract.
It is important that the individual maintains a good exercise regime, which will also help to stretch scar tissue as well as improving exercise tolerance and maintaining a positive mental state.