The degree of joint range of motion limitations after burn injuries during recovery

Abstract Introduction This study determined the degree of ROM limitations of extremities, joints and planes of motion and their prevalence over time after burns. Method For this study the database of a longitudinal multicenter cohort study in the Netherlands (2011–2012) was used. From patients with acute burns that involved joints of the neck, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee and ankle and had surgery (17 planes of motion) ROM was assessed by goniometry at the following timepoints: 3, 6 weeks, 3 months and subsequently every 3 months up to 12 months after burns and at discharge. Results Of 1720 limited planes of motion measured during recovery (117 patients, 353 joints), 1359 (80%) had a minor or mild severity rating; most planes of motion were limited less than 50% of full ROM. The most severely limited planes of motion at 12 months were neck extension (51%) and ankle dorsal flexion (44%). Five planes of motion were unlimited, all of the lower extremity. Conclusion Degree of ROM limitations and prevalence varied over time between extremities, joints and planes of motion. The degree of ROM limitations in the early phase and at discharge was not predictive for degree of ROM limitation in the long term.