What is the impact of a minor burn injury on physical recovery in children? Towards zero functional complications.

Stephanie Wicks¹, Claire Toose¹, Rhianydd Thomas^1,2, Andrew Holland¹, Verity Pacey²,
¹Children’s Hospital Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia
²Macquarie University, Macquarie University, NSW, Australia

Abstract

Background
Burns are a common childhood injury that can impact a child’s long-term physical function and wellbeing. There is limited research on the impact of a minor burn on children’s physical activity levels.

Aim
To assess functional performance of children post <10% TBSA lower limb burn and determine barriers to physical activity. Methods Seventy-nine children aged 5-18 years (mean age 10 years), receiving scar management post lower limb burn injury (mean TBSA 5%) were recruited through the Burn Unit at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead. Participants were assessed at 3-6 months (n=79) and 12-18 months (n=52) post burn. Assessment of physical function included strength (30 second sit-to-stand [STS]), physical fitness (six minute walk test [6MWT]) and balance (Bruninks-Oserestry Test of Motor Proficiency [BOT-2]). The children’s physical performance was compared to normally developing children using data from 1000 norms study. Questionnaires determining physical activity levels and perceived barriers were completed by child and parent at the two assessment time points. Results At 3-6 months post burn, children had significantly reduced performance on 6MWT (z-score mean difference -1.3, 95% CI -1.7 to -0.85, p<0.001) and STS (z-score mean difference -1.2, 95% CI -1.7 to -0.77, p<0.001). Reduced performance remained at 12-18 months post burn: 6MWT (z-score mean difference -1.4, 95% CI -2 to -0.8, p<0.001 and STS (z-score mean difference -1.2 (-1.8 to -0.7, p<0.001). Fifty percent of participants reported barriers participating in physical activity at 12-18 months. Conclusion Physical function and physical activity is significantly affected by minor burn injury.

Biography

Stephanie is a senior physiotherapist with over 10 years experience in paediatric burns rehabilitation. She has an interest in clinical research and completed a Churchill Fellowship in 2017 investigating international strategies to improve access to therapy for rural paediatric patients.