Dr. Swanson

Terry Swanson is a Wound Management Consultant at South West Healthcare, Warrnambool, Victoria, Australia. Terry completed her nursing in Springfield, Illinois and was a Neurosurgical nurse before immigrating to Australia in 1988. She developed an interest in perioperative nursing and wound management in the early 90’s. Terry completed her post-graduate education in 1996 and was appointed as a wound management consultant in 1997 at South West Healthcare. She manages a nurse-led regional and outpatient wound management service. Terry was a successful candidate for the Nurse Practitioner Victorian Project in 1999/2000 and will be seeking endorsement as a Nurse Practitioner (Wound Management) in 2001. Terry is active professionally by participating on various state and national committees. She is the Vice President of the Australian Wound Management Association, as well as the immediate past president of the Victorian Wound Management Association. Terry is currently undertaking study at the University of South Australia, completing a Masters level advanced pharmacology course. Her professional interests include education, mentoring, lecturing, and advocating for nursing and patient's rights.

Answer:
Pressure or the cast rubbing your skin could cause the wounds that you describe. It sounds as if most of the ulcers are now healing and that is what you would expect in a healthy individual. You do not specify your age or any medical conditions, which could influence the rate of healing. A deeper wound does take longer to heal than a shallow wound. You should see your doctor if the wound does not improve. The wound may require a different dressing that is more appropriate for the type, condition and size of the wound. It is good that you are covering the wound when you go out, but it would be better if a dressing was worn all the time. There are several types of dressings to choose from and your doctor, nurse or pharmacist should be able to help you make an appropriate choice. Terry Swanson RN WMC