Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are wounds that can occur on the feet of people with diabetes. Due to a combination of nerve damage, poor circulation, and immune insufficiency, many people with diabetes are at risk of developing DFUs. These wounds can become infected, leading to complications such as tissue death and amputation. When a patient presents with a non-infected DFU, their doctor may prescribe conservative treatments. Conservative treatments are non-invasive and are used to preserve foot health and function and prevent further complications. Conservative treatments for non-infected DFUs may include taking pressure off of the wound, keeping the area moist to promote healing, and protecting and covering the wound and surrounding skin. These treatments are often effective for non-infected wounds. If you have diabetes, a podiatrist can help you manage the effects of this condition on your feet. 

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Deborah Holte, DPM from Northeast Missouri Foot Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Kirksville, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.