Effects of scar massage on burn scars: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

Aims and objectives This study explored the physical and psychological effects of scar massage on burn patients. Background Hypertrophic scar development is highly prevalent following burn injuries. Scar massage may have physical and psychological effects, although evidence of its effectiveness for burn scar improvement remains inconsistent. Design A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials and quasi‐experimental trials. Methods This study was conducted following the Centre of Reviews and Dissemination guidelines and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PubMed, EMBASE, and Chinese Electronic Periodical Services were searched for studies published between January 1990 and February 2022. Quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Appraisal Checklist. The final recommendation strength was assessed according to the JBI recommendation rating. A meta‐analysis was performed using Review Manager Version 5.4 software with a random‐effect model. Results Seven studies (420 participants) investigating scar massage for burn patients were included. The scar massage sessions lasted 5–30 min and were delivered by massage therapists 1–3 times a week for 12 weeks. Overall, scar massage decreased pain levels (standardised mean difference [SMD]: −2.39; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −3.96 to −0.83), improved scar thickness (mean difference: ‐0.05; 95% CI: −0.1 to −0.0), reduced pruritus (SMD: ‐1.89; 95% CI: −2.95 to −0.82) and reduced anxiety (SMD: ‐1.52; 95% CI: −2.73 to −0.32), but no significant effect on depression(SMD: ‐0.92; 95% CI:‐2.28 to 0.44). Conclusions The meta‐effects of scar massage among burn patients are significantly improved scar formation and reduced pruritus and anxiety. Providing scar massage is feasible and effective for burn patients. Future research should evaluate its long‐term effects. Relevance to clinical practice Scar massage is relatively convenient and effective in preventing and alleviating hypertrophic burn scarring. Further research can provide detailed suggestions for effective scar massage implementation.