The Long-Term Impact of Severe Burn Trauma on Musculoskeletal Health

Abstract

Severe burn injury causes a profound stress response that leads to muscle and bone cachexia. Evidence suggests that these deficits persist for several months or even years after injury and are associated with growth delay, increased incidence of fractures, and increased hospital admissions for musculoskeletal disorders. Thus, there is an overwhelming need to determine the optimal acute and rehabilitative strategies to mitigate these deficits and improve quality of life for burn survivors. To date, there is limited research on the long-term impact of cachexia on functional performance and overall health, as well as on the lasting impact of pharmacological, nutritional, and exercise interventions. The aim of this review is to emphasize the long-term consequences of musculoskeletal cachexia and determine the best evidence-based strategies to attenuate it. We also underline important knowledge gaps that need to be addressed in order to improve care of burn survivors.