One of the most common concerns of individuals with diabetes are foot and leg ulcers. Since diabetes causes a reduction in circulation and sensation in the feet, the sores will often go unnoticed and are a threat to the individual’s overall health. If untreated, the ulcers can cause poisoning of the blood and even amputation in extreme cases, it is very important to make sure that foot ulcers are properly treated.
Treatment
Make sure that you wash your feet using warm water and a mild soap. Your feet come into contact with lots of bacteria every day, so it is vital that you keep it as clean as you can.
Talk with your physician about the type of ulcer that may be forming. Some are more common than others and require different treatments- some require more aggressive treatments when they become infected. If your physician prescribes an oral antibiotic, make sure that you take it. Read all instructions carefully and take the entire course of antibiotics, even if the ulcer heals up before you’re finished.
Consider taking an anti-clotting or anti-platelet medication. Your physician will probably want to prescribe one of these in order to prevent blood clots in your feet and legs.
Apply compression with ACE bandages or compression stockings. This will put pressure on the feet and also massage the area, which will help with circulation. Good circulation means that more nutrients are brought to the area and waste products are carried away- promoting healing. Follow your physician’s instructions regarding dressing of your ulcer. Additionally, make sure that the dressing is always properly applied and kept clean.
Inactivity can cause the foot ulcer to be much worse, so make sure that you maintain normal functioning as much as possible, even making sure to wear any necessary prosthetics.
Use topical treatments as recommended by your physician, paying close attention to the first few times to use it to make sure that you don’t experience any irritation. Keep an eye on the area for any signs of infection, such as any areas that turn black, white, green, or yellow. See your physician immediately if you notice discoloration such as this. Also, consider using orthopedic shoes in order to relieve pressure off of the vulnerable places of your feet.
Dr. Ian S. Goldbaum is a Podiatric Physician and Surgeon serving patients in Boca Raton, Delray Beach and Boynton Beach.
Do you have questions or concerns?
Call or email today for immediate answers to your questions.
BOCA/DELRAY
16244 S. Military Trail #290, Delray Beach, FL 33445
561-499-0033
BOYNTON BEACH
8198 Jog Road #100, Boynton Beach, FL 33472
561-499-0033
No responses yet