What is a Pressure Ulcer?
Pressure ulcers are an issue for over 2.5 million Americans. These skin and soft tissue injuries can be quite debilitating, painful, lead to increased health issues, and add significant cost to the healthcare system. Of course, prevention is one of the greatest things that can be done to eliminate these injuries. However, many patients who are immobile due to spinal cord injuries, stroke, dementia, or recent trauma (such as motor vehicle accidents) are at risk for developing these injuries.
The constant pressure on the skin and soft tissues leads to necrosis and the development of a wound. The areas at greatest risk for these injuries are the sacrum (buttocks), heels, and spine. Other factors that lead to these injuries include older age, decreased cognitive ability, smoking, diabetes, and urinary or fecal incontinence. These ulcers usually start out as a reddened area of the skin. If the area is not protected from further injury, this can lead to the development of an open wound with necrotic tissue, muscle breakdown, and infection.
If the area of damage is great, the wound could progress to the bone, resulting in osteomyelitis (infection of the bone). Bone infections can be difficult to treat and can require months of antibiotics given in an IV form. Left untreated, these areas will create tunneling and tracts of injured tissue, increasing the size of the wound and preventing it from healing. Sepsis can develop if these infections are not treated appropriately.
If you have a loved one that is at risk for pressure injuries, it is important to do frequent skin evaluations, reposition them often, and use appropriate padding or mattresses to decrease injury. If you or someone you know is suffering from a pressure ulcer, know that there are treatments available to help speed up the healing time and repair the tissue. Our providers have extensive knowledge of how to treat these injuries and can make recommendations on the appropriate treatment.
Take Action Today with Mobile Wound Care MD
Pressure ulcers require timely and expert care to prevent complications and promote recovery. At Mobile Wound Care MD, we specialize in providing personalized and convenient wound care services right at your doorstep. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you or your loved ones manage pressure ulcers effectively.
By Dr. Leah Dill
Dr. Leah Dill, a native of Forestburg, Texas, earned her bachelor's degree in Biology from the University of North Texas. As a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine at Total Wellness and Bariatrics, she is dedicated to providing holistic, whole-person care.
With extensive expertise in wound care, Dr. Dill specializes in chronic wounds and holds a certification from the National Alliance of Wound Care and Ostomy. She brings over 14 years of surgical experience to her practice, demonstrating tremendous compassion and commitment to her patients' total wellness.
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