The human body makes an instant response whenever a person gets a cut or undergoes surgery. It handles wound healing with the utmost precision. Your skin and tissues go through a series of healing stages regardless of the severity of the wound. Each stage has a purpose and depends on the other to complete the healing cycle. Below are the three stages of wound healing and what you can do during each.
Inflammation Stage
This stage starts right after the injury. Blood vessels constrict briefly to reduce bleeding when the skin breaks during this stage. Then, platelets rush to the area to form a clot and stop further blood loss. This clot forms the scab that protects the wound from outside elements.
Then, your blood vessels expand again so that white blood cells can flood in. These cells are necessary for cleaning up bacteria and dead cells around the wound site. This is where inflammation kicks in, causing redness and swelling. This phase usually lasts a few days and is essential for preparing the wound for the next stage of repair.
The area should be kept clean during this stage. But it should not be overdone with antiseptics. Rest and proper hydration also help your immune system function well. A diet rich in antioxidants such as berries and leafy greens can also support the cleanup crew of your body.
Proliferation Stage
Your body shifts into repair mode after the wound is clean and stable. Fibroblasts cause the formation of new tissue at this stage. They help produce collagen, a protein that gives your skin structure and strength.
Also, there will be a formation of tiny blood vessels meant to restore circulation to the damaged tissue. Your wound might look pinker as nerve endings begin to heal at this stage. More itchiness may also be felt during this stage. Also, your skin might start to contract around the edges of the wound, gradually pulling it together. A fresh layer of skin will begin to cover the wound bed if everything goes smoothly.
Protein is key in this healing stage because your body is building new tissue. So, incorporate protein-rich foods such as eggs, beans, or lean meat in your diet. Also, keep the wound moist with a proper dressing. Studies show this helps speed up healing and reduce scarring.
Remodeling Stage
This final stage can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the size and depth of the wound. The newly formed tissue gets stronger and more organized during remodeling. The previously laid down collagen is now rearranged and replaced with more structured fibers.
The scar tissue that forms might not be as flexible as your original skin. But it becomes less noticeable over time. The tissue beneath is still stabilizing and maturing even though the wound looks closed from the outside.
This stage is a great time to introduce gentle movement if the injury affected mobility. Stretching, or massage can help with flexibility. Keep nourishing your body with whole foods and stay hydrated to gauge full healing.
