For diabetic patients, foot wounds are a very concerning issue. The wound may be a pressure injury, or it could be a diabetic foot ulcer (DFU). A pressure injury is caused by increased or prolonged pressure placed on the foot. The excess pressure creates an ischemia, or inadequate blood supply, to the tissue in that area, resulting in tissue death. DFUs, meanwhile, are usually caused by neuropathy, which is a loss of sensation in the affected foot. Neuropathy is the underlying cause behind 85% of all DFUs. Other causes can include infection, peripheral artery disease, or trauma from ill-fitting shoes, injuries, and repetitive pressure. If you have diabetes and find wounds on your feet, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist for treatment. If left untreated, a foot wound can become infected and lead to other severe complications. 

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. Linda D. Nachmani from Central Foot & Ankle Associates. 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 one of our offices located in Houston, and Pearland, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.