As a physical therapist who works with burn survivors every day, I’ve seen how well exercise can help with recovery, both physically and emotionally. But my patients often tell me they feel unsure about how to exercise safely after a burn injury.
At Temple Burn Center, one of the only burn centers in the region verified by the American Burn Association, we guide patients through safe movement as a key part of recovery.
Ways that exercise helps with healing
1. Strength, flexibility, and mobility
After a burn, it’s common to lose muscle. This is especially true if you spent a lot of time on bed rest. I remind patients that getting stronger helps them get back to doing their daily routines.
Even light weight, such as 2- to 3-pound hand weights, can help muscles recover without overdoing it. Stretching and mobility exercises can help alleviate stiffness and improve range of motion. This can be especially important for scar tissue.
2. Scar tissue stretching
Stretching is the most important component of burn rehabilitation. Stretching can lower the risk of burn scars that limit movement. I often tell my patients to stretch first thing in the morning. This is because the lack of movement overnight makes skin and scar tissue feel tighter. Patients are also instructed to stretch as much as possible throughout the day.
Gentle stretches, such as raising your arms above your head or stretching your calves and ankles, help keep the body feeling looser throughout the day.
3. Breathing and heart function
Some of my patients notice they get tired or feel short of breath more easily after their burn injury. Cardio exercise, such as walking, indoor cycling, or swimming, can help with energy levels and overall lung and heart health.
4. Mental health and social connection
Exercise often gives my patients a sense of accomplishment. Many tell me it helps clear their minds, too. Working out with others also helps them feel socially connected. Recovery isn’t just physical; it’s also about the potential mental health perks.
Exercise examples
1. Stretching
Try different stretches depending on where the burn occurred on your body. For example:
- Lie on a cushion or ball to open your chest
- Prop your arm on the back of the chair when sitting down
- Straighten your arms out in front of you to stretch your elbows
- Open and close your hands
- Prop your legs to straighten your knees and stretch the back of your legs
- Lower your heels off a step to stretch your ankles
- Massage and stretch your toes
2. Strength training
Exercises with bands, light weights, or your own body can help safely build back strength. Yoga, tai chi, or Pilates can also improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
3. Cardio
Activities like walking, swimming, or indoor cycling are great ways to build stamina. These gentle exercises help increase your heart rate and improve blood flow. They can also be adjusted to your comfort level as you get stronger.
What outpatient physical therapy for burn rehab looks like
Physical therapy is a key part of burn recovery. One-on-one sessions often include guided stretching, strength exercises, range-of-motion exercises, and other routines made for each patient’s specific needs. Because no two burn injuries are the same, every program is made just for you to support healing.
Education is an important part of therapy, too. My patients leave sessions with exercises they can safely do at home, which helps their progress between appointments.
With the help of Temple Burn Center’s team, patients benefit from world-class expertise and support throughout their healing journey.
Safety tips for exercising after a burn injury
Burn survivors must take extra precautions when engaging in physical activity.
- Protect skin when exercising outdoors. Wear hats and clothing that cover healing areas, apply sunscreen, and avoid peak sun hours.
- Prevent overheating. Exercise indoors, when possible. Drink water often and take breaks when you start to feel hot.
- Start slowly. Begin with light weights (around 2 to 3 pounds) or short walks first. Then you can slowly increase weight or walking time as your strength and mobility improve.
Temple Burn Center offers expertise and empathy
Temple Burn Center is the most experienced burn treatment and rehab center in the region. Our Burn Survivor Support Group offers support, friendship, and a shared experience through stories. Seeing patients get their independence and confidence back through movement, with support from Temple’s expert team, is one of the most rewarding parts of my work.
Whether your burn injury happened recently or years ago, it’s never too late to start. If you’re ready, Temple Burn Center is here to support you.
Call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) or request an appointment online. We’re here to help.