Dermatofunctional Physiotherapy, as its name suggests, DERMATOFUNCTIONAL refers to rehabilitating the function of the integumentary tissue, which is the skin. Since the skin is the largest organ of the body, this branch of physiotherapy covers a wide range of treatments.
Dermatofunctional Physiotherapy is defined as the use of different physical agents to treat various skin conditions and rehabilitate its function.
It encompasses three areas:
- Reconstructive
- Ulcers – Pressure sores: This is managed in collaboration with nursing staff and even doctors, depending on the type of wound. However, physiotherapists must be trained in treating these types of wounds and continuing their treatment, such as prescribing specific exercises for these cases.
- Reconstructive surgeries: Typically performed by plastic surgeons, with the involvement of trauma specialists and nursing staff. The physiotherapist’s role is to rehabilitate the skin and soft tissue. An example would be a recent case of hand surgery with a skin graft.
- Burns.
- Dermatological conditions: It is important to note that we do not replace dermatologists. Instead, we can collaborate with them and even with cosmetologists. Many dermatologists prescribe active ingredients or dermocosmetics but do not perform treatments themselves. For instance, in acne treatment, we use facial treatments with dermocosmetics and physical agents to help with skin conditions. However, we do not prescribe or medicate. Patients can continue their dermatological treatments alongside our procedures without any negative interactions.
- Aesthetic
This area focuses on facial and body harmonization, which is the primary focus of our clinic. It involves the use of physical agents to improve various skin conditions and their related structures.
- Lipodystrophy – Localized fat – Body contouring treatments – Muscle toning and definition treatments (especially during hypertrophy training).
- PEFE (Edematous Fibrosclerotic Panniculopathy), commonly known as cellulite.
- Scars.
- Pre, during, and post-operative treatments.
- Vascular and Lymphatic
This area includes oncology-related treatments. How? By addressing lymphedema and skin care during cancer treatments.
To clarify, lymphedema is a mechanical, non-systemic condition, meaning it can be managed but not entirely cured. This highlights the importance of patient education and treatment adherence. A patient may receive treatment today and experience recurrence years later.
Lymphedema is very common after cancer since the lymphatic system is affected, especially when part of it is removed. However, other factors can also contribute to lymphedema.
What is the treatment?
Bandaging and prescribed exercises.
Additionally, after skin cancer, facial and body treatments with acid-based dermocosmetics help address conditions resulting from cancer treatments, such as radiodermatitis, extreme dryness, and others.
Other conditions treated in this area:
- Chronic venous insufficiency.
- Lymphedema.
- Lipedema (a pathology of adipose tissue that requires a subspecialty for treatment).
By Maritza Allencaster
