Abstract
Out of the 80 million scars formed every year in the developed world, 40-70% will develop into problematic, stiff, thick, painful, itchy, and pigmented scars. These scars not only cause physical discomfort but also have profound psychosocial impacts. The pursuit of effective treatments is crucial, and mechanotherapy, specifically extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), has emerged as a promising modality. However, the lack of a standardized approach and an in-depth understanding of its mechanotransduction mechanisms limits its potential.
In the long term, our research aims to pioneer a mathematical model that encapsulates cellular, molecular, and physical responses to ESWT, inspired by mathematical burn scar models yet innovative in its inclusion of mechanotherapy. This model will be the first to simulate the stimulus-response effect of mechanotherapy, facilitating the customization of ESWT modalities in clinical settings and fostering a scar-centered approach in scar rehabilitation.
The central objective of our study is to dissect how ESWT influences different types of skin and scar tissue at the cellular and molecular levels. We propose a novel in vitro investigation using human dermal models of varying extracellular matrix stiffness. This approach enables us to standardize ESWT application and analyze histological, cellular, and molecular outcomes, thus informing our mathematical model.
Our research stands at the intersection of innovative technology and practical therapeutics, striving to elucidate the optimal application of ESWT. By integrating comprehensive literature reviews, data from clinical trials, and rigorous in vitro experimentation, we aspire to transform the landscape of scar management. The long-term outcome is a predictive framework that revolutionizes mechanotherapy protocols, tailored to individual scar characteristics and healing stages. This project not only holds the potential to enhance the quality of life for those affected by hypertrophic scarring but also paves the way for evidence-based advances in scar rehabilitation.
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