A chronic wound is a wound that is not healing in the expected time. If you have a wound that hasn't begun to heal in two weeks or one that has not yet healed completely within six weeks, you may need special wound care treatment.
Some examples of nonhealing wounds are:
- Diabetic foot ulcers
- Vascular and arterial ulcers
- Pressure ulcers
- Atypical wounds
Some conditions and behaviors affect wound healing and may make wounds heal more slowly. Some of these factors are:
- Advancing age
- Poor circulation
- Being inactive or immobile
- Not eating healthy foods
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Smoking
- Overweight or obesity
- Stress
- Diabetes
Certain medications and drug therapies may also affect wound healing. It is important that you tell your doctor about all prescription or over-the-counter drugs you are taking.
Advanced techniques for wound care
Riverside health care specialists will come together as a team to plan your care. Your treatment could include one or more of the following advanced techniques:
- Debridement
- Wound vac
- Total contact casting
- Skin substitutes
Wound care on the Virginia Peninsula
The latest technology in wound care is available at the Riverside Advanced Wound Care Center, located within Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News.
To find other Riverside health care providers who offer wound care, please contact Riverside Nurse.