Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores or wounds that manifest in some individuals with diabetes. These ulcers may develop on the foot’s underside and contribute to lower limb amputations. Diabetes can result in peripheral neuropathy, a condition characterized by a loss of sensation in the feet. Diligent diabetic foot care becomes necessary to prevent the progression of these conditions and maintain overall foot health.
Causes of Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Understanding the causes of diabetic foot ulcers is the first step to preventing this issue. With the right diabetic foot care, foot ulcers can be effectively prevented. Here are the main causes:
Poor Circulation
Diabetes may result in peripheral vascular disease, leading to diminished blood circulation to the feet. This reduced blood flow causes the skin to become dry and prone to cracking, heightening the likelihood of developing foot ulcers. It may also slow the healing process, causing minor cuts or blisters to escalate into ulcers.
Foot Deformities
Conditions such as hammertoes, bunions, or bony protrusions cause constant rubbing inside shoes. This leads to pressure sores that may develop into ulcers. Diabetes can also cause Charcot foot. This is a condition leading to altered foot shape. It creates areas of increased pressure that are susceptible to becoming ulcers.
Improper Footwear
Shoes that are too tight, loose, or generally ill-fitting can cause blisters, sores, and other foot injuries that may develop into ulcers. Diabetic patients often have special footwear needs. They should select their shoes carefully to avoid unnecessary pressure or friction on their feet.
Symptoms of Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Early detection of diabetic foot ulcers is necessary for successful treatment. If you have diabetes and notice any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Here’s what to watch out for:
Swelling, Irritation, and Redness
Swelling, irritation, and redness may indicate inflammation, the body’s natural response to injury. Swelling occurs as fluid accumulates around the wound, while redness is a sign of increased blood flow to the area. Irritation can manifest as discomfort or tenderness around the affected area.
Pain and Odor
The severity of the discomfort varies from person to person and is often dependent on the ulcer’s size and depth. Some individuals may experience a dull ache, while others might endure sharp, intense pain. Despite neuropathy leading to numbness in some diabetic patients, many still feel pain from these ulcers. The odor is often foul and strong, indicating the presence of bacteria or tissue degradation. An unusual foot odor that persists could suggest the onset of an ulcer.
How Are Diabetic Foot Ulcers Treated?
The treatment of diabetic foot ulcers involves the following:
Wound Cleaning
Wound cleaning involves removing dead tissue and foreign objects from the wound, creating a clean environment that fosters healing. To reduce irritation and discomfort in wounds, a mild cleansing agent such as normal saline or a cleanser with a neutral pH is utilized. In some cases, doctors may prescribe antibiotics to clear any existing infection in the ulcer.
Wound Dressing
The choice of dressing depends on the size, depth, and location of the ulcer, as well as the amount of drainage. The use of povidone-iodine solution dressings can be effective in healing sutured wounds and suppressing further granulation. Dressings like hydrogel, made from insoluble polymers and containing high water content, may also have excellent moisture-retaining properties.
Off-loading
Off-loading involves redistributing pressure away from the ulcerated area to promote healing. This is achieved through various methods such as bed rest, crutch-assisted gait, and wheelchair use. You can acquire effective treatment through the use of special footwear, orthotic inserts, or casts. These devices are designed to distribute weight evenly across the foot, relieving the ulcer of pressure and friction thereby facilitating the healing process.
Seek Quality Diabetic Foot Care
Regular foot exams, good foot hygiene, and proper diabetes management will help prevent diabetic foot ulcers. If you have diabetes, check your feet daily for any signs of ulcers and seek immediate medical attention if you notice anything unusual. In case you’re already dealing with diabetic foot ulcers, work with experts who specialize in treating such conditions. They will provide you with the right treatment options and advice to help manage and heal your ulcers.