Platte Valley Medical Center Highlights Wound Healing Awareness Month in June

As part of our ongoing commitment to community health, Platte Valley Medical Center is proud to highlight Wound Healing Awareness Month this June. Chronic wounds are a significant medical concern, affecting nearly 7 million Americans, with conditions such as diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers, and pressure injuries being prevalent. Understanding and addressing these conditions is crucial for effective wound management and improved patient outcomes.

Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Diabetic foot ulcers are a serious complication of diabetes, impacting around 2 million Americans. These wounds can lead to severe infections and even amputation if not properly managed. Proper foot care is essential for prevention and healing. We recommend:

Wearing Proper Footwear: Choose shoes that fit well and provide adequate support to avoid pressure points and injuries.

Daily Foot Checks: Inspect your feet daily for any signs of cuts, blisters, or abnormalities. Early detection of issues can prevent severe complications.

Venous Leg Ulcers

Venous leg ulcers result from chronic venous insufficiency and are often associated with significant swelling and discomfort. Effective management strategies include:

Wearing Compression Garments: Compression stockings or wraps help improve blood flow and reduce swelling, promoting healing.

Leg Elevation: Regularly elevate your legs above heart level to decrease swelling and enhance circulation.

Pressure Injuries

Pressure injuries, also known as bedsores, occur when prolonged pressure on the skin reduces blood flow to the area, causing tissue damage. Key preventive measures include:

Regular Position Changes: Avoid sitting or lying in the same position for extended periods. This helps distribute pressure and reduce the risk of sores.

Quality Chair Cushions: Utilize cushions designed to reduce pressure points and provide support, especially if you are wheelchair-bound or have limited mobility.

The Growing Need for Wound Care

Statistics show that 1 in 4 families has a member with a chronic wound. As our population ages and conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease become more prevalent, the incidence of non-healing wounds is expected to grow by 2% over the next 5-10 years. Timely and effective treatment is critical, as the longer a wound remains untreated, the higher the risk of infection and other complications.

Take Action

If you or a loved one are dealing with a chronic wound, don't wait for it to worsen. Reach out to Platte Valley Medical Center today. Our team of specialized healthcare professionals is dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to your needs. We utilize the latest treatments and technologies to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.

Take the first step towards healing and improved quality of life. Contact Platte Valley Medical Center at 308-865-2263 to schedule an appointment and begin your journey to recovery. Together, we can heal wounds and enhance lives.