New York City Burn Injury Care
Pressure Garments

Depending on the extent of damage, recovery after burn injury can take several months to several years. After the initial treatments (surgical burn treatments and/or skin grafts) have been completed, New York burn injury victims need to follow a detailed scar care regimen to avoid scar tissue complications. Proper scar care is crucial in order to lessen the prominence of scars, avoid deformities and ensure unobstructed joint movement. Some of the more important elements of an effective scar care regimen are regular wear of pressure garments, therapeutic exercise and scar tissue massage.

The Role of Pressure Garments

Pressure garments are specialized clothing items that apply constant pressure to the skin. The pressure helps prevent formation of hard, irregular scar tissue that might cause deformities and impair joint movement. If the pressure garments are worn as prescribed by the burn injury New York specialists, they can be very effective in avoiding scar thickening and nodular formations. In addition, compression garments help reduce inflammation and the itching sensation in the burned areas. While they cannot stop scar formation, compression garments help ensure that the scars will be as soft and light as possible.

Compression Garments: Instructions

While the precise instructions for pressure garment wear vary depending on the unique situation of each NY burn injury patient, most often these garments have to be worn at least 23 hours a day. It is important to begin wearing compression garments while the scar is still immature as it is most responsive to treatment at early stages. Pressure garments should be removed only for cleaning and during bathing. Compression garments have to be worn until the scar matures, which often takes about 12 to 18 months.

Types of Pressure Garments

Pressure garments are usually manufactured according to each patient's medical needs. In addition, temporary compression garments are available for wear during early stages of burn injury treatment and while permanent garments are being washed. Compression garments are typically divided into the following categories:

  • Ace Wraps. These garments are worn over surgical dressings and while permanent garments are being washed. When worn properly, ace wraps should feel snug but comfortable.
  • Tubular Elastic Bandage. These are temporary elastic stockings for arms and legs.
  • Pre-Fabricated Garments. Some patients can be fitted with ready-made pressure garments, such as gloves, sleeves and pants.
  • Custom-Made Garments. These are permanent compression garments made specifically for each patient.

Legal Help for New York Burn Injury Victimsp

This site was created to help New York City burn injury victims learn about various types of burns, their causes and available treatments. In addition to discussing surgical burn injury treatments, this portal explains the role of proper nutrition, importance of burn victim counseling and selection of the most appropriate pain management options. In addition, the sponsors of this site, the law firm of Meiselman, Denlea, Packman, Carton & Eberz, offer effective legal representation for burn injury victims who desire to hold those responsible for their suffering financially liable. If you would like to discuss your burn injury case, contact their offices at (914) 517-5000.

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