Foot ulcers can be a serious problem. Ulcers are caused by reduced blood flow and peripheral neuropathy, often as a result of diabetes. When left untreated, they can lead to serious complications such as limb amputation and increased mortality. That’s why it’s crucial to have an appropriate treatment plan in place.
Let’s discuss some of our most recommended methods for caring for diabetic feet.
1. Seek Immediate Podiatric Care
A qualified podiatrist can assist in determining the extent of the injury. Moreover, they can devise a treatment strategy that is suitable for your situation.
If you can, make sure to schedule routine evaluations with your podiatrist. This way, your feet will remain healthy and problem-free.
Additionally, your doctor can offer guidance on how to take care of your feet better.
Diabetes patients can experience a rapid worsening of even seemingly small problems. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
2. Maintain a Healthy Wound Environment
Maintaining a healthy wound environment can be achieved by using topical products. For instance, daily use of saline and dressings can provide a moist wound environment.
Achieve a Healthy Ulcer Base
In cases where the wound has caused the tissue to die, achieving a healthy ulcer base is essential to promote healing.
This can be accomplished by removing dead tissue and debris from the wound, which can encourage new tissue growth.
The use of specialized dressings can also help create a healthy wound bed. Specialized dressings include hydrogels and foam dressings.
Your trusted podiatrist can guide you in finding the right combination of dressings and ointments for your diabetic foot condition.
Use Antibiotics
Antibiotics are medications that help fight infections caused by bacteria. They can be applied directly to the wound as a cream, given orally or via IV to help clear the infection and promote healing.
However, it is important to use antibiotics carefully and only when needed. Using antibiotics under the guidance of a healthcare professional and only when necessary is a must.
Do Not Dry Them Out
Protecting the wound from bacteria is also essential in promoting healing. Keeping the area clean and disinfecting it regularly can help prevent infections.
Despite the temptation, avoid using harsh soaps. Applying such chemicals can damage healthy tissue or dry out the wound.
Wound antiseptics such as povidone-iodine are often used.
3. Proper Offloading
Offloading means reducing pressure on the affected foot, which is crucial to promote healing. This can be achieved by making use of the following:
- Special shoes
- Bracing
- Casts
Proper offloading can help reduce pressure on the wound. Furthermore, it can encourage adequate blood flow to the affected area.
4. Pay Attention to the Wound
Examine your feet on a daily basis for any signs of injury, such as:
- Cuts
- Blisters
- Redness
- Swelling
Maintaining clean and dry feet may involve washing your feet daily with gentle soap and lukewarm water. You may have to pay particular attention to the areas between your toes.
Always make sure to wear shoes and socks. These can protect your feet from any debris or sharp items that may be on the ground. The objective is to prevent injury as much as possible.
Regularly cut your toenails across the grain rather than rounding the corners. This can help avoid ingrown toenails.
Be careful with the foot care products that you use for the wound. Use only those that have been developed especially for diabetics.
Some creams or lotions contain substances such as urea, tea tree oil, peppermint, or aloe vera. These are geared towards keeping your feet moist while reducing the risks of injury or infection.
5. Control Your Blood Sugar Levels
It is essential to keep your diabetes under control in addition to receiving proper wound care. You need to get routine checkups and monitor your blood sugar levels regularly.
The goal is to keep your blood sugar levels in a healthy range.
After all, the healing process can be slowed down by uncontrolled diabetes. This high-wire condition due to increased glucose levels in the blood can make it more difficult to manage unwanted wounds on your soles.
Therefore, effective wound care management must include a comprehensive plan to manage diabetes. Doing so can promote a conducive environment for the effective recovery of your feet.
Controlling your blood sugar levels may involve:
- Lowering blood glucose levels
- Eating a balanced diet
- Avoiding smoking and drinking alcohol
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Being physically active
Regular exercise can help improve blood circulation, leading to improved oxygen and nutrient supply to the wound site.
Diabetic Wound Care Near Me in Cincinnati, OH
Foot ulcers can be a bad complication of diabetes. However, with the right treatment plan and support, you can deal with them effectively. It’s not just about antibiotics and surgical procedures. Meticulous wound care is truly the cornerstone of diabetic foot ulcer treatment. Don’t stress out over having to treat these wounds. You can count on us to facilitate your recovery and prevent further complications.
Cincinnati Foot and Ankle Care is a trusted resource. We have a group of compassionate and experienced foot and ankle doctors to provide you with the best care. Please call the office closest to you to find out more about our podiatrists and services. You can also consult the top podiatrist in Cincinnati through our online appointment request form.
For your convenience, we have 18 offices located throughout Southwest Ohio.
