One of the main side effects of diabetes is the problems it can cause to your extremities, as nerves become damaged and circulation of blood to the feet and toes is blocked. The result is often peripheral neuropathy (numbness to the toes and feet), and ischemia (reduced blood flow), which can lead to peripheral artery disease (PAD). Both conditions are serious and can severely threaten the health of your toes, feet, and possibly legs. One of the most important ways to prevent or control this ailment is to regularly maintain proper foot health. Some of the actions you or a health-care worker can take is to thoroughly inspect your legs, ankles, feet, and toes for sores, blisters, redness, or swelling. Also, it’s a good idea to wear shoes that fit correctly, keep your feet clean and moisturized, change socks frequently, and avoid tight elastic that further cuts off circulation. At the first sign of swelling, redness, discoloration, or unexplained pain in your feet, it’s strongly suggested that you set up an appointment with a podiatrist who can monitor your condition.
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.
