Foot injuries can be extremely dangerous for patients with diabetes. If not cared for immediately, wounds can develop into ulcers, become infected, and in the worst cases, lead to amputation of the limb. For diabetic patients, it is important to take steps to prevent wounds as much as possible. If one does become injured, it is critical to get help from our podiatrist as soon as possible and take measures to promote healing. Our podiatrist near Fairfax, VA, explains more below.
Problems For Diabetic Patients
Diabetic patients have unique needs when it comes to podiatry. Peripheral neuropathy can cause numbness and a reduced ability to feel pain in the feet, preventing the patient from feeling a cut or scrape. If the patient isn’t aware of the injury, the wound may worsen before they even notice it. This is why it’s best to be proactive and check your feet every day!
Additionally, patients who are overweight, smoke, or use insulin are at an even higher risk of developing foot ulcers. Keep these risk factors in mind when visiting our podiatrist for a checkup.
Successful Treatment
See our podiatrist as soon as possible if you notice a wound or possible ulcer on your foot. We can help prevent infection, remove any dead skin around the wound, and apply medication and a foot dressing. If an infection has developed, we can evaluate if you need antibiotics or other wound care.
Other Methods To Promote Health
Research suggests that probiotics can aid in wound healing. In a study, diabetic patients suffering from foot ulcers were followed throughout the healing time of their wounds. Some patients were given probiotic supplements and others were not. After 12 weeks, the patients that had been taking probiotic supplements saw a greater reduction in the size and severity of their ulcers than the other patients[1]. Consult with our podiatrist today to see if this option is right for you!
Contact Our Podiatrist Near Fairfax, VA, To Find Out More!
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other topics related to podiatry, feel free to contact The Podiatry Center, with convenient podiatry offices located near Fairfax, VA, by calling 301.660.8225 or by clicking here.
References:
[1]https://www.healio.com/endocrinology/diabetes/news/in-the-journals/%7Bac38c0be-89f0-4023-b396-a1898444eeda%7D/probiotic-supplementation-aids-wound-healing-in-diabetic-foot-ulcer
