Types of Wounds

Common types of chronic wounds
When one of these types of non-healing wounds appears, notify your doctor or call a specialist. If you see signs of infection, increased temperature, odor, increased drainage, increased pain, coolness or heat at the site of the wound, seek medical attention immediately.


Diabetic or neuropathic foot ulcers
Some of the most common types of non-healing wounds are diabetic or neuropathic foot ulcers. When you lose feeling in your feet, you can easily injure them. It is very common for people who have lost feeling in their feet and legs to burn them or harm them in some other way and not know it.


Pressure ulcers (bedsores)
Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, develop when skin is squeezed between a bone and an external surface, such as a bed or wheelchair. They are most likely to develop at the tailbone, heels, elbows, shoulder blades, knees, ankles, the back of the head, or the spine. Pressure ulcers are common in people who have difficulty walking and for those who are bedridden or wheelchair-bound.


Venous stasis ulcers
Venous stasis ulcers occur in the lower legs between the ankles and the knees, and are caused by poor circulation. They develop when blood pools in the legs because of damaged valves in the veins. The legs may swell, feel hardened or become discolored.


Vascular ulcers
Vascular ulcers occur because blood supply to the feet is decreased. These wounds are usually very painful and require immediate treatment to determine if it is possible to save the limb.