IL-17B is known to stimulate the proliferation of chondrocytes, bone, and is highly expressed in nervous tissue, resulting in repair of diseased tissue. When IL-17B is absent a marked negative effect on wound healing is noted. The present invention comprises providing IL-17B, by topical, parental, or other administration means, in order to accelerate the wound healing process. The present invention further encompasses a pharmaceutical composition and formulations thereof that utilize IL-17B, either alone or in combination with other cytokines or growth factors known to aid wound healing. The invention also contemplates methods of treating wounds in patients using this pharmaceutical composition.