Department of Medical Sciences, Oral and Biotechnology, ‘‘G. D’Annunzio’’ University, Chieti, Italy; Department of Dermatology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy; Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, ‘‘Sapienza’’ University, Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy; School of Specialties in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation ‘‘G. D’Annunzio’’ University, Chieti, Italy and Department of Medicine and Science of Aging, ‘‘G. D’Annunzio’’ University, Chieti, Italy
Prolonged and abnormal scarring after trauma, burns and surgical procedures often results in a pathologic scar. We evaluated the efficacy of unfocused shock wave treatment, alone or in combination with manual therapy, on retracting scars on the hands. Scar appearance was assessed by means of the modified Vancouver Scar Scale; functional hand mobility was evaluated using a range-of-motion scale, whereas a visual analogue score was implemented for detecting any improvements in referred pain. Additionally, biopsy specimens were collected for clinico-pathologic correlation.