Ulcer Prevention

The vast majority of diabetic foot complications resulting in amputation begin with the formation of skin ulcers.  Early detection and treatment of these ulcers may prevent up to 85% of amputations.  If you are diabetic, or know someone who is, prevention of ulcers should be your number one concern.  Below are some tips to help with your prevention of diabetic ulcers.

Inspect the feet daily.  This should be done by the patient or caretaker, if the patient is unable to do so.  If you are unable to see certain areas of the foot, use a mirror.  Make sure there are no blisters, torn skin, or cuts.

Wash your feet daily.  Use a gentle cleansing soap and water.  Pat your feet dry, do not rub them.  (Diabetics can develop an ulcer if they rub their feet too hard.)  When dry, use a topical moisturizer-this will help maintain healthy skin that can better resist breakdown and injury.  A good lotion to use is Amerigel Barrier Lotion known as the "Body Armor for your skin".  This lotion stays on the surface of the skin and does not penetrate through the protective layers.  Because of this, it provides you the best protection on the market today.  This lubricant minimizes skin tears in friction prone areas and reduces inflammation caused by irritants.

Wear special diabetic socks.  You want to make sure they don't have a seam in the toe.  Seams can cause foot irritations and sores.  Make sure your socks have a snug fit.  You want your socks to stay in place and not wrinkle or bunch up.  Look for socks made with spandex and Lycra, this will eliminate that problem.  You also want your socks to keep your feet cool and dry.  Do not buy cotton socks.  Cotton is a relatively abrasive material and it also absorbs foot perspiration and holds it against your skin.  This gives bacteria and fungus a chance to attack your skin.  Look for socks made with CoolMax technology.  The CoolMax fibers will help wick moisture away from your skin, keeping your foot dry.

Wear diabetic shoes.  These shoes are specifically designed with diabetics in mind.  Diabetic shoes are made wider and deeper than regular shoes.  This allows room for custom insoles, and to insure a proper fit.  They need to be made from breathable materials as well.  There needs to be either no interior seams or covered seams and a roomy toe box to prevent any rubbing or pinching.  You also want to make sure they have an adjustable fit to prevent the shoe from sliding around.

When inspecting the feet daily, if you notice any areas of:

• redness
• swelling
• bleeding
• blisters

or any other problem on the foot surface, call your doctor promptly.

If you are a diabetic and think you may have an ulcer, please contact our office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Vail at 419-423-1888.  If you have any other questions regarding diabetic foot care, visit our website at www.vailfoot.com.