Healing Beyond the Surface: Why Proper Chronic Wound Care Matters
Dr. Alvin May
This article draws from Dr. Alvin May’s new book Heal Your Wound, where he emphasizes the importance of not only medical treatment but also the emotional and practical steps that support true healing. Below, he highlights some of these key approaches and why they matter for both patients and caregivers.
Chronic wounds are more than just a medical issue, they can be a daily challenge that can impact every part of a person’s life. From physical discomfort to emotional stress, these wounds often linger for weeks or months, especially when tied to conditions like diabetes, poor circulation, or limited mobility. Here is the good news: with the right care and tools, healing is possible, and it starts with understanding the importance of proper treatment.
The Hidden Burden of Chronic Wounds
Chronic wounds affect millions of people and are often underestimated. They can be painful, prone to infection, and emotionally exhausting. Without proper care, they can lead to serious complications like infections, amputations, and even increased mortality. That is why early intervention and consistent, and informed care are so critical.
What Proper Wound Care Looks Like
Effective wound care is not about changing bandages. It is a structured process that includes:
- Cleaning and debridement to remove dead tissue
- Infection control to prevent complications
- Moisture balance to support healing
- Monitoring wound edges to track progress
- Documenting Progress and Wound Status Daily
- Communicating with Medical Personnel
This approach helps healthcare providers tailor treatment to each patient’s unique needs. However, even the best care plans rely on one key factor: communication. Long-term wound care is not only about medical treatment—it’s about partnership. Open and honest communication helps patients feel heard, builds trust with caregivers, and allows providers to make informed decisions that support steady healing.
Why It Matters
When patients are engaged in their care, outcomes improve. Tracking symptoms, staying informed, and communicating clearly with healthcare providers can make a significant difference. For home healthcare workers, understanding the patient’s day-to-day experience is key to adjusting care and offering the right support. In short, proper wound care is more than just treating the wound, it is about supporting the whole person.
Take the First Step
If you or someone you care for is managing a chronic wound, take steps to stay involved and informed. Whether through daily observation, open communication with your care team, or finding ways to reflect and reduce stress, every small action contributes to healing.
Healing a chronic wound is never just a physical process—it’s also about knowledge, patience, and resilience. Dr. Alvin May explores these themes further in his book Heal Your Wound, a resource that brings together practical strategies and compassionate guidance for patients and caregivers alike. For those seeking a deeper understanding, it offers both clinical insight and encouragement for the journey toward recovery.
