HELPFUL FAQS ON DIABETIC FOOT ULCERS
Podiatry Care
LEARN MORE ABOUT DIABETIC FOOT ULCERS AND TREATMENTS
Although they are known as diabetic foot ulcers, DFUs can affect anyone with chronic disease and circulation problems, including people with rheumatoid arthritis.
These wounds can be shallow skin openings or penetrate deeply into your muscle tissue and even reach into your bones. Treatment at A Step Above Podiatry may include the removal of dead tissue (debriding), X-rays, and antibiotics.
Any wound can develop into a diabetic foot ulcer if there is nerve damage (neuropathy) and/or poor circulation in the foot.
Neuropathy reduces your ability to feel pain, so a sore may go unnoticed until it becomes a problem. It also changes the structure of your feet, resulting in bunions, hammertoes, and other issues that can lead to open sores and infection.
Poor blood circulation hinders your foot’s ability to fight any infection that develops.
Regularly examine the bony parts of your feet and watch for any persistent red spot or an open wound. If there is an opening, it may drain clear fluids, blood, or pus. Pus or a bad odor like decaying meat means you need immediate attention.
After an initial examination, Dr. Elizabeth Hinton, DPM will clean the wound and, if necessary, remove any diseased or dead tissue. A culture or X-rays may be taken, and oral or topical antibiotics may be prescribed. Other treatments include special shoe inserts and other orthotics, as well as procedures designed to improve your circulation.
Anywhere from a week to a year, depending on your condition and the severity of the wound. If you follow the doctor’s recommendations, you can hasten the process.
The best course is to treat the condition that leads to foot ulcers. For diabetics, that means controlling your blood sugar. You also will need to learn to regularly examine your feet and identify any problems.
Other beneficial actions include keeping your feet clean, exercising regularly to improve your circulation, and wearing proper footwear. You also should not smoke.
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Dr. Elizabeth Hinton, DPM is available to answer any questions you might have about your upcoming procedure and recovery period. If you’re worried about forgetting your questions, jot them down on a piece of paper and bring them to your appointment.
