Segmented skin treatment systems and methods

A system for treating a patient, comprising:

• a dressing comprising an elastic layer, a first attachment zone, and a second attachment zone;
• and
• a tensioning element, comprising:
• a first structure releasably coupled to the first attachment zone of the dressing, the first structure comprising a plurality of relatively rigid segments and at least one relatively bendable portion forming a joint between at least two of the plurality of relatively rigid segments;
• and
• a second structure releasably coupled to the second attachment zone of the skin treatment device;
• wherein the tensioning member has a first position wherein the skin treatment device is relatively less strained and a second configuration wherein the skin treatment device is relatively more strained.