Heritage Wound Care Team
Clinical Education
Diabetic foot ulcers represent one of the most serious complications of diabetes, affecting approximately 15% of people with diabetes at some point in their lives. Understanding the risk factors, early warning signs, and modern treatment approaches can significantly reduce the risk of amputation and improve quality of life.
15%
of diabetics develop foot ulcers
85%
of diabetes-related amputations are preventable
Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores or wounds that commonly occur on the bottom of the foot in people with diabetes. They develop as a result of multiple factors including poor circulation, nerve damage (neuropathy), and impaired wound healing that are characteristic of diabetes.
When left untreated, these ulcers can become infected, leading to serious complications including bone infections, gangrene, and potentially amputation. However, with proper care and early intervention, most diabetic foot ulcers can be successfully treated.
High blood sugar damages nerves, particularly in the feet, leading to loss of sensation. Patients may not feel cuts, blisters, or pressure points that can develop into ulcers.
Diabetes affects blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the feet. This impairs the body's ability to heal wounds and fight infections.
Conditions like bunions, hammertoes, or Charcot foot create pressure points and increase friction, making ulcers more likely to develop.
Ill-fitting shoes can cause blisters and sores that may go unnoticed due to neuropathy, eventually developing into ulcers.
Prevention is the most effective strategy for managing diabetic foot ulcers. The following practices can significantly reduce risk:
Check feet daily for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling. Use a mirror for hard-to-see areas.
Wash feet daily with lukewarm water and mild soap. Dry thoroughly, especially between toes.
Wear properly fitted shoes and clean, dry socks. Never walk barefoot, even indoors.
Maintain target blood glucose levels to reduce nerve damage and improve circulation.
When diabetic foot ulcers do develop, prompt and appropriate treatment is essential. Heritage Wound Care employs a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach:
Debridement: Removal of dead or infected tissue using advanced methods like Ultramist therapy, which provides painless, non-contact debridement while reducing bacterial load.
Infection Management: Early detection using fluorescence imaging technology allows targeted antibiotic therapy before infections become severe.
Vascular Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of blood flow to determine if vascular intervention is needed to improve circulation and healing.
Advanced Wound Care: Biosynthetic grafting and specialized dressings create an optimal healing environment and accelerate wound closure.
"The key to successful diabetic foot ulcer treatment is early intervention and a comprehensive approach that addresses all contributing factors. With proper care, we can prevent the vast majority of amputations."
Immediate medical attention is crucial if you notice any of the following:
Heritage Wound Care specializes in preventing and treating diabetic foot ulcers with advanced technology and expert care.
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