The treatment of diabetic foot ulcers can never begin fast enough. Because diabetics tend to experience poor circulation, even the smallest cuts and scrapes experience a much slower healing process than those that occur in persons who do not have the disease. As a result, diabetics are more susceptible to infections that can pose a big threat to the wellbeing of a diabetic. The treatment of diabetic foot ulcers is so imperative because upon the onset of an infection, many things can go wrong. In the most extreme cases, a limb may have to be amputated or the results can even be fatal. In fact, the American Diabetes Association reports that more than 60 percent of non-traumatic lower-limb amputations occur in people with diabetes.
Special care must also be given to cuts, scrapes and scratches that appear on the hands as well. In fact, lesions on the hands are just as dangerous as diabetic foot sores but do not get infected as much as those that appear on the feet. The reason why the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers is such a big deal is because people don’t look at their feet as often as they do their hands, so even the tiniest nicks tend to go unnoticed until a bigger problem or infection is present. Also, feet endure a lot more wear and tear than hands and come into contact with more hazardous objects when walking. Diabetes can also cause a numbness or lack of sensation in the limbs, so they may not feel pain when their foot comes into contact with something sharp. As soon as a person notices any kind of cut on the skin, the process of treatment of diabetic foot ulcers should immediately begin.
Before, During and After Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Every affected person should be trained for the best practices when it comes to treatment of diabetic foot ulcers. Prevention is the best solution so that the problem is fixed before it starts. This means proper foot care should be part of a patient’s routine. Diabetics should examine feet regularly for cuts. If a foot ulcer occurs, the first step is to alleviate pressure from the feet. (This could mean not walking) Diabetics should also be cautious of the shoes they wear, since certain kinds of shoes and sandals can rub against the skin and cause a sore.
If a person smokes, quitting can help because using tobacco products causes damage to blood vessels, contributing to poor circulation associated with foot ulcers in diabetics. Trimming toenails with a safety clipper is another useful tip. Diabetics should never use scissors to trim their toenails. Eliminating obstacles from one’s path can also help, because it cuts the chances of tripping over or bumping into things that can cause foot injuries.
With the proper treatment of diabetic foot ulcers, healing usually takes place within six weeks. Sometimes surgery becomes an option for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers. Patients should also wear appropriate post-healing footwear to prevent a reoccurrence.
