November is Diabetes Awareness Month, which is an important opportunity to explore common foot issues related to this widespread disease. If you are diabetic, you have no doubt been warned about the dangers of foot ulcers. Diabetes can cause nerve damage, which prevents diabetics from feeling wounds when they first appear. As a result, open sores develop into ulcers, typically on the soles of the feet or anywhere else where there is excessive pressure. If not treated, ulcers can become infected and even lead to amputation. That is why it is vital for diabetics to have regular checkups with a podiatrist.
If an ulcer forms, there are a variety of treatments and tips to follow:
● Make sure you clean your ulcer to prevent infection.
● Do not to walk barefoot. Minimize your chances of worsening your condition and developing new wounds.
● Use antibiotics to treat and prevent infections.
● Take part in physical therapy to help blood flow to your feet so that wounds can heal easier.
● Skin grafts may be required to help defend an open ulcer from infection.
● Oxygen treatment can also be helpful to assist with healing.
Here at Cange Podiatry Inc., our podiatrist, Darlyne Cange, DPM, knows the dangers of ulcers and will work with you to understand why your feet are developing them, as well as providing a solution that helps your feet overcome them! Contact us at our Howard County locations in Ellicott City and Glen Burnie, MD. We strive to provide smart solutions to your foot ulcers and will help you take future precautions to prevent them from occurring again. Visit us online and schedule an appointment today!