In response to the growing global challenge of wound care, a comprehensive new online education programme has been launched to enhance physiotherapists’ expertise in wound management. The eight-course programme, led by physical therapist and wound care specialist Dr. Dana Palmer (DPT, BMRPT) addresses the critical need for specialised training in this increasingly important healthcare domain.
Chronic wounds represent a significant healthcare challenge, affecting an estimated 1-2% of the global population. The prevalence increases dramatically with age, rising to 3.6% in individuals over 65 and exceeding 5% in those above 80 years old. This growing healthcare concern spans both high-income countries, where lifestyle factors contribute to wound development, and low- and middle-income nations, where resource limitations can impede effective treatment. The economic and psychological impacts of this widely preventable medical condition carry a heavy impact on this vulnerable patient population.
Finally, a wound care course that makes sense for physios! The content is spot-on and I’ve been able to use what I learned right away with my patients. Fantastic resource for any physio wanting to better understand wound management ~ Physiotherapist, UK
The role and abilities of physiotherapists and other rehabilitation professionals in wound care varies significantly by region, practice act and scope of practice. It is essential for practitioners to be well informed about the specific regulations governing wound care in their jurisdiction. Even for physiotherapists not directly involved in wound management, understanding these principles remains crucial for comprehensive patient assessment and effective participation in multidisciplinary care teams.
Physiotherapists are uniquely positioned to address this healthcare challenge. Their comprehensive approach to patient care, combined with extensive patient contact time and strong critical thinking skills, enables them to provide holistic wound management solutions. This new programme recognises and builds upon these inherent strengths, equipping physiotherapists with specialised knowledge in wound care.
This course was exactly what I needed – practical, thorough and easy to follow. I’m now so much more confident handling wounds in my everyday practice. It’s changed how I work with my elderly patients ~ Physical Therapist, USA
The programme consists of eight carefully curated courses that progress from foundational knowledge to practical application. The journey begins with “Skin Anatomy, Physiology and Healing,” providing essential background knowledge for wound care practitioners. Subsequent courses focus on specific wound types, including arterial and venous insufficiency ulcers, neuropathic wounds, pressure injuries, and non-healing surgical wounds.
Participants will develop crucial skills in wound assessment and management through courses covering factors affecting wound healing, basic wound assessment techniques, and wound cleansing and debridement procedures. The programme concludes with practical modules on wound dressings and compression therapy and offloading techniques.
What sets this programme apart is its focus on practical, applicable knowledge. Each course has been designed to enhance physiotherapists’ ability to:
- Accurately identify and assess different types of wounds
- Develop personalised management strategies
- Coordinate patient care and resources effectively
- Implement preventive measures to reduce wound occurrence
By empowering physiotherapists with specialised knowledge and skills, it aims to improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of chronic wounds on healthcare systems worldwide.
For physiotherapists interested in expanding their expertise in wound care, this online programme offers a flexible, comprehensive learning pathway to enhance their practice and better serve their patients’ needs, whether they’re directly involved in wound care or working as part of a broader healthcare team.
This article was written by one of our course instructors...
Tarina van der Stockt
PT (BphysT), DPT
Education Director Physiopedia Plus