Foot Ulcers

Foot care is extremely important in caring for your diabetes.  Without proper diabetic foot care several complications can occur including skin changes, calluses, foot ulcers, poor circulation and in severe cases amputation. 

'According to the American Diabetes Association and diabetes.org, Ulcers most often occur on the ball of the foot or the bottom of the big toe.  Remember, even though some ulcers do not hurt, every ulcer should be seen by your health care provider right away. Neglecting ulcers can result in infections, which in turn can lead to loss of a limb.

What your health care provider will do varies with your ulcer. Your health care provider may take x-rays of your foot to make sure the bone is not infected. The health care provider may clean out any dead and infected tissue. You may need to go into the hospital for this. Also, the health care provider may culture the wound to find out what type of infection you have, and which antibiotic will work best.

Keeping off your feet is very important. Walking on an ulcer can make it get larger and force the infection deeper into your foot. Your health care provider may put a special shoe, brace, or cast on your foot to protect it.

If your ulcer is not healing and your circulation is poor, your health care provider may need to refer you to a vascular surgeon. Good diabetes control is important. High blood glucose levels make it hard to fight infection.

After the foot ulcer heals, treat your foot carefully. Scar tissue under the healed wound will break down easily. You may need to wear special shoes after the ulcer is healed to protect this area and to prevent the ulcer from returning.'*

Be sure to inspect your feet often.  If you notice any sores or changes with your feet be sure to see your podiatrist as soon as possible.  Call us at 419-423-1888 or visit our website to schedule an appointment.

*source:diabetes.org