Wound Care

No, a referral is not necessary to be seen or treated.

If a wound has not improved significantly in four weeks, or if it has not healed completely in eight weeks, it is considered a chronic, non-healing wound.

Diabetes, an aging population, immobilization and circulatory problems contribute to the majority of chronic, non-healing wounds. In developed countries, it has been estimated that 1 to 2% of the population will experience a chronic wound during their lifetime. Another 2.5 million patients have pressure ulcers, a common side effect of spinal cord injury, arthritis and other conditions that require a patient to be bedridden. Persons suffering from circulatory problems account for another half million patients. The rest have wounds that result from traumatic injury, non-healing surgical incisions and a variety of other diseases.

Most chronic wounds are easily preventable. In most cases, treatment of a chronic wound is much more difficult than preventing the wound from forming in the first place. Wearing well-fitting, supportive footwear, for instance, will help prevent the formation of ulcers on the toes and foot. This is especially important for those people who have diabetes or vascular disease. People who are immobilized or bedridden as a result of stroke, spinal cord injury or advanced age can develop pressure ulcers (bedsores) on the buttocks, hips, heels, and other areas. Avoiding constant pressure through frequent turning and change of position – along with pressure-relief mattresses or cushions – can help prevent these problems. Proper nutrition, regular exercise, and avoidance of smoking can also help make the body more resistant to wound formation.

Patients who have non-healing wounds require specialized and aggressive care. In traditional medical settings, many patients may not receive the interdisciplinary attention that these wounds require. For these people, minor lesions can unfortunately lead to chronic, non-healing wounds with serious infection, gangrene and possible amputation. Specialized care can make sure patients heal and return to their daily life activities.

While much research is being done to answer this question, we know that there are some common reasons why chronic wounds fail to heal. One of the most important is lack of adequate blood flow to the wound. Infection within the wound and poor general nutrition are other important factors. Underlying illnesses, such as cancer or diabetes, can cause a general impairment in the body’s ability to heal wounds. Other reasons include a history of prior radiation exposure and unrelieved pressure on the wounded area.

In general, a wound that is draining fluid, has a foul odor, or is very painful may be infected and requires medical attention. Other worrisome symptoms include fever and increasing swelling or redness around the wound. Of course, if you feel your wound is not improving, or if you have concerns about the appearance of your wound, you should seek medical assistance as soon as possible.