Wound Care Specialist

What is a non-healing wound?

A non-healing wound is one that has not started to heal within two weeks or has not completely healed in six weeks. Non-healing wounds are subject to infection, and without proper care, the infection can spread to the bones. 

Tissue death and gangrene may set in as well. Non-healing wounds can also contribute to edema, or swelling, which further discourages healing.

Why would I have a non-healing wound?

Common types of non-healing wounds are surgical wounds, pressure sores, foot ulcers, and sores from radiation treatment.

Your body’s inability to heal these wounds may be due to:

• Diabetes
• Peripheral artery disease
• Weakened immunity
• Poor nutrition
• Circulation problems
• Excess alcohol use
• Smoking
• Vascular disease
• Sedentary lifestyle or immobility due to medical conditions
• Nerve damage

With wound care services, the team at Medical Associates of North Texas treats the wound and any underlying conditions that may be contributing to the inability to heal.

What is involved in wound care?

The trained physicians at Medical Associates of North Texas evaluate and manage chronic wounds to minimize complications and offer the most appropriate treatment if infection or tissue death does occur.

One of the first steps in caring for a chronic wound is debridement. This is the process of removing dead skin and tissue to help your wound heal. 

Sometimes, local anesthesia is administered to keep you comfortable as the doctor cleans the skin around the wound, checks its depth, removes dead tissue, and cleans the area. The doctor applies a dressing and may offer antibiotics to prevent infection or clear up an existing one.

To prevent future wounds, they may recommend compression stockings, specific dietary changes, exercise, and physical therapy. You’ll also receive thorough management of underlying conditions that contribute to your wounds’ inability to heal.

At Medical Associates of North Texas, the team also teaches you to identify signs of potential infection so you can get care right away. These include:

• Redness or swelling
• Pus or bleeding from the wound
• Pain that gets worse
• Fever and chills

For comprehensive wound care, call Medical Associates of North Texas to set up an appointment or book online.