Ritual, superstition and science in wound healing: Part 2 – the role of superstition and ritual in the interpretation of wound aetiology and treatment across cultures

Wynn, M ORCID: 0000-0001-9021-4747 (2025) Ritual, superstition and science in wound healing: Part 2 – the role of superstition and ritual in the interpretation of wound aetiology and treatment across cultures. Wounds UK, 21 (3). pp. 40-46. ISSN 1746-6814

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Abstract

This article explores the enduring role of superstitious beliefs in the interpretation and treatment of wounds across different cultures despite advancements in medical science. Ethnographic studies from Cameroon, Ghana, Nigeria and Sweden reveal that traditional and superstitious beliefs often coexist with biomedical practices. In Ghana, chronic wounds are frequently attributed to supernatural causes and treated with traditional methods, while in Sweden, Muslim migrant populations may accept the value of medical advice but view long-term outcomes as the will of Allah. This article highlights the influence of cultural traditions, knowledge deficits, and the limitations of scientific approaches in fully addressing patient needs. It discusses the persistence of ritualistic practices among healthcare providers in relation to wounds and the potential implications, such as the need for enhanced education, improved diagnostic tools, and culturally sensitive communication, to bridge the gap between traditional beliefs and evidence-based practices in wound care. The article underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and patient-centred care to improve outcomes in wound treatment.

Item Type:	Article
Additional Information:	Shared with permission for non-commercial purposes only © Copyright Omniamed Communications, Wounds UK, volume 21, page number 40-46
Uncontrolled Keywords:	3202 Clinical sciences
Subjects:	R Medicine > RT Nursing
Divisions:	Nursing and Advanced Practice
Publisher:	Omniamed Communications
Date of acceptance:	16 December 2024
Date of first compliant Open Access:	1 October 2025
Date Deposited:	01 Oct 2025 15:54
Last Modified:	01 Oct 2025 16:00
URI:	https://researchonline.ljmu.ac.uk/id/eprint/27239

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