Types of chronic wounds may include, but are not limited to the following causes: venous ulcers, diabetic ulcers, and pressure ulcers.

Venous ulcers occur primarily in the legs of patients and are caused by problems with blood circulation due to dysfunctional veins.

Diabetic ulcers often start as small scratches or minor wounds that patients with diabetes have a hard time feeling due to nerve damage. Diabetic ulcers can lead to severe infection and amputation if not appropriately treated

Pressure ulcers primarily afflict patients who are bedridden or of limited mobility. The constant pressure on the tissue decreased blood flow. Areas at the greatest risk for pressure ulcers are the sacrum/tailbone, shoulder blades and heels.

The treatment of chronic wounds varies based on the type of wound. Often, underlying causes must be addressed first before wound healing can progress. Individuals with diabetes will need strict blood sugar control, good nutrition and good blood flow to the wound bed for healing. Pressure ulcers and diabetic ulcers require reduction of pressure to the wounds. Arterial ulcers will require intervention to improve blood flow, while venous ulcers will benefit from compression therapy.