Member Comments are provided by individuals and reflect their personal opinions only. Under NO circumstances should you act on any advice or opinion posted in this forum. ALWAYS check with your personal physician before taking any action regarding your health! MedHelp International and our partners, sponsors and affiliates have no obligation to monitor any comments posted on this site, or the content and/or accuracy of such exchanges. MedHelp International does not endorse the views of any user.
Burns (Expert Forum)
Rhojo
Answered by
Jeffrey S Guy, M.D., M. Sc. - Burn Surgery, Trauma Surgery, Critical Care Medicine, Med Spec/Interest 4 General Surgery, Pre-Hospital Care
Vanderbilt Burn Center
This forum is for questions and support regarding burn issues such as: Hand burns,
Pediatric Burns, Thermal burns, Electrical burns, Chemical burns, Radiation burns, Rehab/Recovery, Pain control, Psychological / Social Recovery, Scar Management, Smoke inhalation, Disaster Management, Skin and Soft Tissue Infections
Rhojo
by RhoJo, Feb 12, 2008 03:47PM
What are the long turn effects of 3rd degree burns on the backs of a man's arms? I received 1st thru 3rd degree burns over 39 % of my upper body. This happened in 1987. I was a Firefighter then and am now. I have developed a lot of pain in the backs of my arms. Some days it's hard to use them. I have a lot of weakness in them also. I am 48 years old. Other than this my heath is good. My regular Doctor can not find any reason for the pain in the backof my arms.
I have heard mixed responses as far as later-in-life pain from scarring. What's the general consensus?
I have heard mixed responses as far as later-in-life pain from scarring. What's the general consensus?
Doctor's Answer
by Jeffrey S Guy, M.D., M. Sc., Apr 07, 2008 02:46PM
, Apr 07, 2008 02:46PM
The pain can be from several causes. Commonly people have what is called neuropathic pain. When the skin was injured, the nerves in and beneath the skin were also injured. This can create a condition called neuropathic pain and in very severe conditions, complex regional pain syndrome. Consultation with burn specialist, pain expert, or neurologist might be helpful. Typical pain killer are not usually helpful. Also, occupational therapy can teach you desensitization therapy.
