Time is of the essence when it comes to dealing with diabetic-related foot problems.
There are currently 29.1 million people in the US who have diabetes. While treatment and control of this chronic disease can certainly prevent complications, a shocking 8.1 million people with diabetes are actually undiagnosed. If left untreated this condition can cause circulation problems, loss of vision, nerve damage, stroke and even limb amputation. With diabetic-related foot problems being so common, it’s important that you know how to effectively treat diabetic ulcers should the issue arise.
First and foremost you will want to see your Philadelphia podiatrist. While ulcers and other foot problems may not always be a cause for serious concern, if you are dealing with diabetes, these conditions need attention.
Take it easy
Rest and taking pressure of the infected foot will go a long way to improve your condition. Your podiatrist may even recommend the use of a cast to help speed up the healing process. In fact casts and other bandages can improve about 73 percent to 100 percent of all treated foot ulcers. However, do not attempt to wrap your ulcer yourself, unless otherwise instructed. You should always see your podiatrist to find out the proper way to wrap your wound.
Ward away infection
One of the most important things your Philadelphia podiatrist can do is protect your ulcer from further complications. Since certain bacteria are easily able to enter this open wound, it’s important to prescribe antibiotics to our diabetic patients to prevent further damage and more serious infections from occurring. Since ulcerations and infections of the foot are the most common causes for diabetic hospitalizations, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Remove the problem
When you see your Philadelphia podiatrist we may need to remove dead skin and tissue to better see and treat your ulcer. This process is known as debridement and this will help us to better handle and care for your foot problem.
If you notice redness, drainage coming from your foot, pain, fever or pus, then it’s time to see your Philadelphia, PA podiatrist at The Foot & Ankle Group. The sooner you seek treatment the better. Don’t deal with the scary complications of diabetic foot problems. Call us today!
The Foot and Ankle Group are specialists in wound care. Our physicians have a combined 30 plus years of experience working in wound centers and treat the most complicated foot, ankle and leg infections in Philadelphia and southern New Jersey hospitals. Our practice employs wound care nurses to assist in our treatment of the most difficult to heal wounds.
