5 things you need to know about wound healing

When your body is trying to heal a wound, the time it takes to heal is determined by many things, including the depth and width of the wound, the type of injury and the amount of contamination. Poor wound healing means it takes longer than normal for the regrowth of skin. This opens up the wound to the risk of infection because bacteria and fungus have more time to grow. Read on for what you should know about wound healing.

One of the most important factors in wound healing is the blood supply. Blood carries oxygen, nutrients and everything your body needs to heal the wound. Normal wound healing requires good blood flow to the wound, normal function of the immune cells, and protection of the wound from continued injury or contamination.

Wounds that tend to heal slowly are most often on the feet or forelegs. These areas can suffer from poor blood flow as the arteries that supply the legs are prone to hardening and blockages due to a number of conditions. These include diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure, family history, age and high cholesterol.

Poor blood flow limits the nutrients and cells available in an area of entry necessary to heal. The feet and forelegs are prone to chronic injury from the stress of walking. Pressure points result from the constant abrasion with shoes. This can slow healing by injuring new tissue. Shoes also provide a place for bacteria and fungus to grow. Causes contamination.

Diabetics have problems with poor wound healing. This is because high blood sugar levels affect the body’s ability to heal wounds. The increased blood sugar content gives bacteria a more supportive environment for growth and infection. Diabetic neuropathy damages the nerves in your legs and foot, meaning you have numbness and can’t sense when your shoes or socks are causing injury in your feet or legs.

There are several things that must be done to treat poor wound healing. The blood flow has to be corrected by either opening or bypassing the area of narrowing or blockage. The wound needs to be cleaned twice a day. Keep dressing that provides good moisture in place. Antibiotics to treat infection or contamination or administered topically, orally or intravenously. Finally, prevent continued injury by making moderations in dressings or shoes. You need to maintain care even after the wound has healed to protect this fragile, new tissue.

If you’re concerned about wound healing or want to learn more about vascular health, call (623) 258-3255 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Zakhary.