Every November, two health observances ask us to pay closer attention to our bodies: Diabetes Awareness Month and Smoking Cessation Month. At first glance, they may seem unrelated. But for anyone living with a chronic, non-healing wound, these two themes are deeply connected—and addressing both can change the course of your recovery.
Chronic wounds affect 6.7 million people across the United States, and that number keeps climbing. Diabetes and smoking are two of the biggest reasons why. The encouraging news is this: with the right care and a few important lifestyle changes, even stubborn wounds can heal. If you or someone you love is struggling with a wound that won’t close, we want you to know help is within reach.
Diabetes affects the body’s ability to heal in several ways. High blood sugar can damage nerves and reduce circulation, especially in the feet and legs. That means a small cut or blister may go unnoticed and slowly worsen into a diabetic ulcer. Diabetic ulcers are among the most common—and most serious—chronic wounds we treat. Left untreated, they can lead to infection and even amputation. That matters because early, specialized care often makes the difference between healing and a long-term complication.
At LECOM Institute for Advanced Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine, we are proud to be the region’s first provider authorized to administer the Reapplix 3C Patch, an FDA-approved therapy designed specifically for diabetic ulcerations. Using a small sample of your own blood, the patch is prepared in about 18 minutes and applied directly to the wound to support healing from within.
Healing a chronic wound takes more than a single treatment, it takes a coordinated plan and a team that truly cares. Led by our team of physicians, nurses, and hyperbaric technicians works together to correct the underlying factors keeping your wound from healing.
Our evidence-based treatment options include; negative pressure wound therapy to promote healing and reduce swelling, hyperbaric oxygen therapy to deliver healing oxygen directly to damaged tissue. Bio-engineered tissues and biosynthetic dressings to support and protect the wound, growth factor therapies encourage your body’s natural repair process. The Reapplix 3C Patch for diabetic ulcerations. Each plan is built around your specific condition and needs, with referrals to other specialists whenever they can help.
This November, let these two awareness months be your reminder that healing is possible. Manage your diabetes, take a step toward quitting smoking, and let our team help with the rest. If you have a wound that won’t heal, call us today at (814) 868-3999. We’re ready to help you get back to the life you love.