RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS OF SCAR LASER THERAPY COMBINED WITH SYSTEMATIC REHABILITATION FOR HAND FUNCTION RECOVERY: IMPLICATIONS FOR SPORTS MEDICINE AND ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE

Abstract

Objective: This study evaluates the effectiveness of scar laser therapy combined with systematic rehabilitation in enhancing hand function recovery in postoperative patients with hand trauma, with implications for sports rehabilitation and functional restoration in physically active individuals. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 48 patients with postoperative hypertrophic scars or contractures leading to hand dysfunction, treated at the Rehabilitation Department of Wuxi Ninth People's Hospital between January 2019 and December 2021. Patients were divided into a control group (n = 28), receiving routine hand rehabilitation therapy, and an experimental group (n = 20), receiving scar-targeted carbon dioxide laser therapy in addition to routine rehabilitation. The study compared scar improvement parameters (scar blood flow perfusion, scar thickness, and Modified Vancouver Scar Scale scores) and hand function recovery metrics (total active range of motion of fingers, fingertip sensation, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores) before and six months after treatment. Results: Both groups demonstrated significant improvement in scar reduction and hand function post-treatment. However, the experimental group exhibited a greater reduction in scar thickness, blood flow perfusion, and Vancouver Scar Scale scores compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Additionally, total active finger movement and DASH scores improved significantly in the experimental group, indicating enhanced functional recovery. Conclusion: The integration of carbon dioxide laser therapy with a structured rehabilitation program significantly improves scar remodeling, hand mobility, and upper limb function in patients recovering from hand trauma. These findings support the clinical application of scar-targeted laser therapy in sports medicine and rehabilitation, offering a potential treatment strategy for athletes and physically active individuals recovering from upper limb injuries.