Do I Need a Wound Specialist?

Have you noticed that a cut or a scratch is taking longer than usual to heal? This may be an early sign of diabetes. During Diabetes Awareness Month, we want to share the importance of identifying and responding to non-healing wounds and how a Certified Wound Specialist is helpful during recovery. Dr. David R. Sullivan at Westfield Foot and Ankle, LLC is a Certified Wound Specialist. Here are a few more details about the area of diabetic wound care.

What is a wound?

A wound can be categorized in two ways: acute or chronic. A specific event is usually the cause of an acute wound, and this type of wound typically heals without delay. A chronic wound, however, is persistent; it can last for a month or longer. A chronic wound is dangerous because it may go unnoticed by patients who have neuropathy or nerve damage. Neuropathy is common in patients with diabetes.

What does it mean to be a Certified Wound Specialist?

For more than a decade, Dr. David Sullivan has been certified as a wound specialist. This means that he has extensive knowledge, experience, and training in the area of wound care management. As a Certified Wound Specialist, Dr. Sullivan can assess the wounds of his patients on-site in his office. Patients can take comfort in knowing that their feet and ankles are in great hands.

When should I consider seeing a wound specialist?

Regardless of whether you have been diagnosed with diabetes, never delay your response to a wound. A non-healing wound is very dangerous for patients with diabetes, among other conditions, and failure to act quickly can result in infection. Your first step should be to schedule an appointment with your podiatrist. They will let you know the next steps for treatment.

If you ever have concerns about a chronic wound, make an appointment with Dr. David Sullivan, a Certified Wound Specialist, and his team. Schedule a visit with us today or call (317) 896-6655. We serve our neighbors in Westfield, IN, or the Hamilton County area.