A deep tissue injury is just what it sounds like; an injury to underlying tissue below the skin's surface. This injury is a unique form of pressure ulcer that restricts blood flow to the tissue causing it to die. Unlike a pressure sore, a deep tissue injury affects deeper tissue as opposed to the surface of the skin.
A deep tissue injury (DTI) can be painful and debilitating and lead to life-threatening issues. Even with treatment, it can quickly deteriorate into your worst nightmare, and since it's not an obvious injury, it's easy to miss.
What differentiates a deep-tissue injury from a pressure sore?
According to the National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel (NPUAP), a DTI is defined as a purple/maroon area of discolored intact skin or a blood-filled blister due to damage to underlying soft tissue. It is potentially dangerous because DTIs begin in the muscle closest to the bone and may not be apparent in its early stages, making early identification and aggressive treatment imperative. Three proactive treatments to prevent DTIs include:
If a deep tissue injury is similar to a pressure ulcer but more dangerous, how do you determine you're dealing with a DTI?
Since treatment may differ, it's imperative to get it right for proper healing. The NPUAP identifies the symptoms of DTI as follows:
When diagnosing a DTI/pressure ulcer, understanding the severity can determine the course of treatment. Experts identify the six stages of pressure injuries as follows:
When treating a deep tissue injury, the right products can make all the difference. There are a plethora of medical aids available at HPFY to deal with deep tissue injuries. Three medical aids that may benefit your treatment include:
Any skin breakdown can lead to serious problems down the road. Early identification of a deep tissue injury can be crucial in treating it successfully. Work with your doctor or nurse to develop a wound care plan that works for you. Establish a plan, be proactive, and be diligent!! Visit Health Products For You for all of your wound care for skin needs.
Disclaimer: All content found on our website, including images, videos, infographics, and text were created solely for informational purposes. Our reviewed content should never be used for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Content shared on our websites is not meant to be used as a substitute for advice from a certified medical professional. Reliance on the information provided on our website as a basis for patient treatment is solely at your own risk. We urge all our customers to always consult a physician or a certified medical professional before trying or using a new medical product.
Kevin Cleary has been a Health Products For You contributor for many years and has a degree in marketing. His health and wellness journey has a very personal meaning and has guided him in his content writing for HPFY.
In 2006, ...
Enteral Feeding: The What, When, and How
When traditional oral intake is not feasible, enteral feeding comes into play. It supports nutritional needs of individuals recovering from an injury or surgery. Dive into this informative article and learn what, when, why, and how of enteral feeding and ensure optimal patient care.
Using the Carpal Solution Carpal Tunnel Wrist Support
Looking for a non-invasive option to manage carpal tunnel symptoms? Experience relief from constant tingling and pain with this Carpal Solution Wrist Support. Read this article to know about the unique features and benefits of this wrist support brace designed to deal with CTS and find why it is one of the most reliable wrist braces available on the market.
Top 5 Best Reviewed Nebulizers of 2023
Need an effective and affordable nebulizer? Look no further, in this article we offer 5 of our best reviewed nebulizers that are loved by our customers. Click to read more and find the perfect nebulizer for all your respiratory needs.
10 Best Overnight Adult Diapers
Worried about nighttime leaks? Say goodbye to leakage with our ten best overnight adult diapers and wake up refreshed and dry.
Five Best Cervical Traction Devices of 2023
Neck pain can wreak havoc on your otherwise healthy life. Traction device improves your cervical health and overall well-being. Read more to find our best cervical traction devices designed to curb the stiffness and discomfort of cervical muscles.