Those with diabetes are prone to foot ulcers and should make an active effort to check for them in order to avoid any further complications. People with diabetes can easily develop neuropathy, which makes them unable to feel if they have any wounds on their feet. So daily checks are vital in ensuring that no foot ulcers have formed. If a foot ulcer is found, then that wound should immediately be treated, so the healing process can begin. There are a few key components to keep in mind when caring for a foot ulcer. Taking pressure of the area, which is called “off-loading”, helps to keep blood flowing through the foot, so it can start to repair itself. Removing dead skin, then applying medication and dressing the wound will help fight infection. Preventing infection is one of the most important parts of caring for a foot ulcer, because an infection will make the wound much more complicated and dangerous. If you have a foot ulcer, then it is strongly recommended that you speak with a podiatrist to learn about how to properly care for it.

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 Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. 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 offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.