Posts for tag: Diabetic Ulcers
Patients with diabetes have to take extra precautions with their feet. Poor circulation, reduced immune system defenses, and nerve damage are all hallmarks of this disease, which put diabetics at a greater risk for several medical disorders. At New England Foot &n Ankle Specialists we urge our patients to be vigilant in checking and caring for their feet to prevent these conditions:
Diabetic Ulcers—any cut or open wound, no matter how small, can spell big trouble for patients with diabetes. Circulation and immunity issues mean that wounds are slow to heal and diabetic ulcers can form from seemingly minor ailments such as blisters, ingrown toenails or dry, cracked skin. If bacteria enters the wound and infection develops, it can quickly spread to the bone. The risk of amputation is the primary concern if the infection cannot be controlled and eliminated.
Peripheral Neuropathy—neuropathy or nerve damage can occur anywhere in the body as a result of diabetes but in the feet it is particularly dangerous. Being unable to perceive changes in temperature, pain, or other sensations makes it much more likely that a diabetic will sustain an injury or not detect an irritant to the foot that could lead to an open wound.
Charcot Foot—this condition is not common but when it occurs the bones of the feet become very weak and begin to spontaneously fracture. Neuropathy prevents the patient with diabetes from perceiving the pain caused by the breaks and so he or she continues walking on the foot, causing more damage and eventually deformity and extreme difficulty walking.
If you have diabetes your foot doctor will be your partner in protecting your feet. Regular podiatric checkups are essential for foot health. Our podiatrists, Dr. George A. Abboud, Dr. Brian D. Tedesco, Dr. Carl Conui, or Dr. Kimberly Thurmond, can help you develop a diabetic foot care regimen that will help prevent serious complications. If you have questions about diabetic foot health, contact our Reading office by calling: (781) 944-4044.
According to a study being tested at the Malcom Randall Veterans Affairs Medical Center, maggots may be used to treat chronic diabetic ulcers. While maggot therapy has been an ancient practice, it is going through clinical trials to see if the feasting of dying tissue and germs in wounds can have positive effects. The study is set into involve 128 Veterans with diabetic ulcers where the maggots or larvae will be produced and sterilized in an “eight step-step control” routine. Although the term “maggot” does have negative connotations, they have been proven to clean out wounds nicely under the right control.
Although the use of maggots to treat diabetic feet may seem kind of extreme, general diabetic foot care is extremely important. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of New England Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will diagnose and treat your foot and ankle needs.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
- Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
- Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices in Reading, MA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.