AFTER THAT INITIAL ASSESSMENT, HOW SHOULD PTS APPROACH WOUND TREATMENT?
Let’s talk about something like a venous ulcer. In that case, the standard of care is using a compression system. It depends on the specifics of the situation as to what type of compression, but physical therapists will definitely be in the role of recommending, as well as applying, the system and teaching the patient about how to use the appropriate compression for their problem. PTs may also notice that the patient is already being treated, perhaps by another health care professional, for a venous ulcer. And that provides an excellent opportunity in which the disciplines can collaborate on the problem. HOW DO YOU ADDRESS BOTH THE WOUND TREATMENT AND THE PATIENT’S PAIN? Currently, one of the A-rated, evidence-based treatment interventions for wounds is electrical stimulation. At this time, the FDA has not given clearance to any company or any product for the use of electrical stimulation in wound healing. However, they have approved the devices for treatment of pain. There are several
