Did you know that seniors over the age of 65 account for over 85% of chronic wounds in the United States? Furthermore, over 70% of lower limb amputations in the U.S. are on people aged 65 and older. Approximately 8.8 million Americans suffer from chronic wounds, with this number consistently increasing as the population ages. Most wounds present for four weeks or more with minimal signs of improvement are considered chronic wounds. Examples include diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers, pressure sores and post-operative surgical wounds.
The reason seniors are more susceptible to chronic wounds has to do with the aging process. As we grow older, the following tends to occur:
- Higher incidence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease and peripheral vascular disease
- Reduced mobility, bedridden status
- Poor nutrition
- Impaired immune function
- The use of medications that affect wound healing
When a patient is suffering from a chronic wound, specialized wound treatments are typically needed to obtain wound closure. At Coastal Wound Care, Dr. Timothy Gregory, MD, CWSP and his team of highly skilled nurses provide the most advanced treatments available to achieve wound healing. As a certified wound specialist physician, Gregory has the experience required to prescribe advanced wound healing modalities. These treatments include wound debridement (surgical cleaning of the wound), vacuum assisted wound closure, off-loading devices (such as specialized footwear), compression wraps and garments and skin substitute products.
If you or a loved one is struggling with a wound that will not heal, it may be time to reach out to Coastal Wound Care. Next day appointments are always available and no referral is necessary.
For more information, please visit coastalwoundcare.com or call 843-483-0193.
By Maurice J. Frazier
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