29/09/2021
PRESSURE GARMENTS
Pressure garments are worn to help burn survivors control scar maturation, and they often improve the overall appearance. This is achieved by applying pressure to the maturing scar 23hours a day.
Hypertrophic scar can develop within weeks to a few months post injury and continue for twelve to twenty-four months. Pressure garments are customized to each survivor and are commonly provided by a member of the burn team (an Orthotist or Therapist) per a physician’s order.
Care of the Pressure Garment;
Wash the pressure garment every day by hand or by machine. Do not use hot water, bleach, washing solution, or fabric softener.
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Washing Instructions.
Hand Wash: Soak the garment in cool water and mild soap. Rinse well with clean and cool water. Roll the garment in a towel to soak up excess water.
Machine Wash: Use mild soap or detergent and cool water on the gentle or delicate cycle.
Air-dry only. You may only use a dryer if your dryer has a completely heat-free setting. Do not put the garment in sunlight or in front of a heater.
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When to Call your Orthotist or Therapist.
Call your Orthotist/Therapist if:
- The garment is too tight or is cutting into your skin.
- The garment does not fit snugly. There should be no wrinkles except for the few that you see where joints (like the elbow, ankle or wrist) are bent.
- Swelling or redness is present. Remove the garment if the fingernails look blue, or if your complains of tingling, burning, or the skin feeling cold.
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Other Information
Your doctor or Orthotist/therapist may suggest that you use a gel sheet or other insert under the garment to help provide proper pressure and added moisture to the burned area.
Special care is given to burns on the face, hands and feet. In these cases, your doctor or Orthotist/ therapist may suggest another type of custom-made to be worn for added pressure.
If you have any questions or concerns, call us on +2348077900167
