Wounds on the feet require prompt treatment, and this may be helpful in preventing serious foot conditions from developing. Wounds can occur as a result of existing medical conditions that can include diabetes, high blood pressure, and kidney disease. A wound on the foot may happen from having neuropathy, and this can cause the inability to feel any pain that is associated with cuts or bruises. There are specific methods that can be implemented which may be helpful in controlling the number of wounds that can develop on the feet. These can consist of drinking fresh water daily, wearing shoes that fit correctly, and practicing gentle stretching exercises. If you have wounds on your feet, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can perform a diagnosis, and offer a treatment plan that is correct for you.
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 Scott Matthews, DPM, MD from Salem Foot Care . 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 Wikesboro, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
