Diabetic patients commonly suffer from nerve damage known as diabetic neuropathy and circulatory problems in their feet. Nerve damage can cause tingling, numbness, sensitivity, and prevent the diabetic from feeling pain or detecting when they have a cut, crack, or another small abrasion on their feet. Any disturbance in the skin such as this would normally be able to heal, were it not for the inadequate flow of blood in the diabetic patient. So even the smallest undetected skin injury can worsen quickly and develop into a wound because it is not getting the supply of oxygen and nutrients it needs to heal. That is why it is vitally important for diabetics to inspect their feet daily and to see a podiatrist right away if anything unusual is spotted. Regular examinations with a podiatrist would be advantageous to the diabetic to prevent wounds from developing as well as be proactive about their foot health.
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 Theresa Brown, DPM of Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality 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 Montgomery, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your podiatric needs.
