Pressure ulcers are a significant concern in healthcare. These wounds develop due to prolonged pressure on the skin, often affecting individuals with limited mobility or those with underlying health conditions. Pressure ulcers can also result from reduced blood flow to the skin. Any break in the skin caused by pressure can lead to infection. Common infections related to pressure ulcers include localized infections, cellulitis, and osteomyelitis, which can progress to sepsis, a life-threatening condition. Prolonged pressure reduces blood flow to the skin, which can result in tissue damage. Foot pressure ulcers often occur on bony prominences such as the heels and ankles. People using improperly fitted prosthetics, those who wear shoes that rub on various parts of the foot, and people with fragile skin are more susceptible to these wounds. Early detection and treatment are essential for better outcomes. Daily foot checks can help detect pressure ulcers and result in timely intervention. If the skin breaks, vigilance should be practiced for signs of infection, such as pus, foul odor, and increased redness. Once a pressure ulcer forms, treatment includes wound cleaning, protection from pressure, and other medical care depending on the severity of the ulcer. If you have a foot wound, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible for treatment.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Fox Valley Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Naperville, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
