Nearly one in three people with diabetes will develop a diabetic foot ulcer, a slow-healing wound that can turn serious fast. These ulcers often start small, maybe like a blister or callus, but with poor circulation and nerve damage, they can quickly worsen without pain as a warning sign. Left untreated, infections can spread, sometimes leading to hospitalization or even limb loss. Prevention is key. Daily foot checks, wearing proper footwear, and keeping blood sugar in check reduce risks. But if you have diabetes and you notice redness, swelling, or a wound that is not healing, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist for care as quickly as possible.
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 Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor 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 Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes, causing nerve damage in the feet and legs. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, burning sensations, and sharp or stabbing pain. As nerve function declines, you may lose feeling in your feet, making it harder to detect injuries or pressure points. This lack of sensation can lead to foot ulcers, open sores that often develop on the bottom of the feet. These ulcers can become infected if not treated properly, leading to more serious health issues. A podiatrist plays an essential role in managing diabetic neuropathy and preventing foot ulcers. This type of doctor can assess your feet for signs of nerve damage, provide treatment for ulcers, and recommend appropriate wound care. Additionally, they can help with custom orthotics to reduce pressure on vulnerable areas, and offer advice on proper footwear to prevent further injury. Regular foot exams and monitoring foot health can help catch issues early before they develop into more severe problems. If you have symptoms of this condition, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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