Contrast therapy promoting skin scald repair.

Abstract

Contrast therapy (CT), alternating cooling and heating therapy, has been investigated for its potential benefits in treating soft tissue injuries in sports. This study examines the efficacy of CT in enhancing skin scald repair. We established a standardized rat scald burn model, and randomized the subjects to three groups: CT, cold therapy (COT), and untreated model control (MC). Interventions commenced immediately after injury. Cutaneous blood perfusion, tissue oxygen saturation and wound healing rates were assessed. Inflammatory cytokine (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α) quantification were measured by Elisa. Histological changes were analyzed by hematoxylin-eosin and TUNEL staining. After 21 days' observation, CT demonstrated significant suppression of TNF-αand IL-6 protein expression in burned tissue by day 3 post-burn. Additionally, CT enhanced localized blood perfusion at both wound center/edge and increased oxygen saturation at wound edge post-treatment. The epithelial thickness in the CT group was greater than in the COT and MC groups, with a lower proportion of TUNEL-positive cells. The CT group also showed less ulceration and edema. The CT group had a higher wound healing rate on days 1, 7, and 14 post-burn compared to the other groups. In conclusion, CT ameliorates local blood microcirculation, reduces harmful inflammatory factors in scalded skin tissue, and accelerates wound healing. These findings suggest that CT may be a potential effective treatment for acute scald injuries.