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South Jersey Hospital System 333 Irving Ave. Bridgeton, NJ 08302 Help for Nonhealing Wounds Chronic wounds affect 5.7 million people across the United States every day. If left untreated, a chronic wound can be painful and affect your quality of life. A nonhealing or chronic wound — no matter the size — poses a dangerous health threat. Chronic wounds can become infected and are the main cause of non-traumatic amputation if not promptly and properly treated. Individuals at increased risk of developing nonhealing wounds include those with diabetes; nerve damage of the legs, called peripheral neuropathy; swelling of the legs, sometimes caused by lymphedema; poor nutrition; vascular disorders; and other conditions that slow the body’s healing process. A chronic wound can also result from postsurgical infection and skin disorders such as dermatitis, poor circulation, radiation or trauma. Could I Have a Chronic Wound? Nonhealing wounds typically are any open sores that do not begin to heal within three to four weeks. “Chronic wounds are most commonly found on the feet, especially among people with diabetes,” said David Galetto, M.D., medical director of the Wound Care Center at South Jersey Healthcare. “To help prevent chronic foot wounds, avoid going barefoot inside or outdoors, check feet every night for cuts and cracks, moisturize dry feet at least daily, keep blood sugars in good control, and wear cotton socks and change them daily.” If you or a loved one has a wound that doesn’t show signs of healing or get smaller in a month, seek the help of a health care professional. The certified wound care specialists at SJH’s Wound Care Center use the most current therapies and treatment in the management of chronic wounds. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT www.SJHealthcare.net/FandF. Family & Friends is published by South Jersey Healthcare. The material in this publication in no way seeks to diagnose or treat illness or to serve as a substitute for professional medical care. Please speak with your health care provider if you have a health concern or if you are considering adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines. For permission to reprint any portion of this publication; to notify us that you have received more than one copy; or to be removed from the mailing list, please contact us at (856) 575-4541.