Occupational Therapy in Burns and Scar Management

Specialist Rehabilitation for Burns, Scarring, and Skin Conditions in the UK

Specialist OT Rehabilitation for Burns and Scarring

At The Rehab Team, we provide expert occupational therapy in burns and scar management across the UK.

We support individuals recovering from burn injuries, surgical scarring and complex skin conditions to restore function, improve mobility and rebuild confidence in daily life.

Our specialist occupational therapists deliver personalised, goal-focused rehabilitation programmes in the home or workplace.

Why Occupational Therapy in Burns and Scar Management is Important

Burns and scarring such as a partial or full thickness burn or hypertrophic/keloid scarring can have a significant impact on physical function, mobility and emotional wellbeing. Occupational therapy in burns and scar management focuses on:

  • Management of skin health and scar appearance

  • Preventing and reducing joint contractures

  • Supporting increasing movement and functional ability

  • Supporting psychological adjustment and confidence

Early and targeted intervention is essential to optimise recovery and long-term outcomes.

Understanding Burns and Scar Management

Burns and scar management involves non-surgical therapeutic intervention following:

  • Partial or full thickness burns

  • Hypertrophic or keloid scarring

  • Surgical scars or trauma-related skin damage

Scarring can lead to tightening of the skin and soft tissues, restricting movement and impacting daily activities.

How we help:
Our occupational therapists take a holistic approach, addressing the physical, functional, psychological, and social effects of burns and scarring, ensuring rehabilitation is tailored to each individual’s goals and lifestyle.

How Our Occupational Therapists Help

Comprehensive Assessment & Personalised Plans

We carry out detailed assessments to understand the physical, functional, and psychological impact of burns and scarring.

Home, Community, and Workplace Rehabilitation

Therapy is delivered in real-life environments to maximise independence and meaningful recovery.

Holistic, Goal-Driven Therapy

We focus on both physical recovery and emotional wellbeing, supporting clients to regain confidence and independence.

Ongoing Monitoring and Reporting

We provide detailed assessment reports and regular progress updates for clients, case managers, and legal teams.

Burns and Scar Management

The role of occupational therapy in burns and scar management

Burns and scar management refers to the non-surgical therapeutic intervention following a partial or full thickness burn or hypertrophic/keloid scarring. This includes management of the affected skin, any joint contractures caused by tightening of the skin and soft tissues, and how the burn or scar has impacted the individual in terms of their mobility, function and confidence.

Therapeutic intervention for burns and scars, will include the physical aspects of scar management as well as psychological and social considerations. It is important that the therapist uses a holistic approach and focuses on the client’s concerns and functional goals.

The occupational therapist will provide advice on skin care and exercises to improve joint mobility and function. Splinting and pressure garments are essential to reduce the appearance of the scar, minimising skin contractures and hypertrophic scarring, whilst advice on cosmetic camouflage and wigs may help the client to overcome the stigmatism of the injury and increase their self-confidence.

Therapeutic interventions for burns and scar management

The Rehab Team can provide expert advice and treatment to clients with burns injuries and scarring from either trauma or surgical procedures. Burns and scar management intervention may include the following aspects:

  • Scar management (includes the use of silicon treatments, as well as advice on moisturising, massage, sun creams and other skin products)

  • Skin desensitisation techniques

  • Exercise programmes to reduce skin contractures

  • Splinting

  • Pressure garments

  • Mobility and functional assessments

  • Client centred rehabilitation

  • Cosmetic camouflage

  • Wigs for burn alopecia

Our occupational therapists can respond immediately and provide advice, support and rehabilitation to the client in their own home, community or work environment. We will provide a detailed assessment report and regular progress reports throughout our intervention.

For more detailed information on how occupational therapists can help individuals with burn injuries, scarring or disfigurement, please feel free to give us a call and one of our experienced therapists will be happy to provide more information.

Therapy That Fits Around Your Life

One of the things our clients value most is flexibility.

We can see you:

  • In your own home

  • In the community

  • At your workplace

This means your therapy is always relevant to your day-to-day life, helping you make real progress where it matters most.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re dealing with a hand or upper limb issue, you don’t have to manage it alone. Our team provides expert OT Hand Therapy & Upper Limb Rehabilitation UK services designed to support your recovery every step of the way.

Get in touch today, we’re here to help you move better, feel better and get back to doing what you love.