Foot Ulcers and Infections

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The most common risk factors for ulcer formation include diabetic neuropathy, structural foot deformity and peripheral arterial occlusive disease. Foot ulcers and infections for the diabetic patient can become serious if left untreated. Since diabetics have diabetic neuropathy and peripheral arterial disease, a minor cut or injury can become a serious infection. The inability to feel the sore and the failure to heal properly can result hospitalization and possibly amputation. A careful physical examination, by monofilament testing for neuropathy and noninvasive testing for arterial insufficiency, can identify patients at risk for foot ulcers and appropriately classify patients who already have ulcers or other diabetic foot complications. A podiatrist is uniquely equipped to help a diabetic patient care for the foot and any injuries they may have.

Common foot problems that can lead to infection are, but are not limited to:

• Corns
• Calluses
• Blister
• Ingrown toenails
• Bunions
• Warts
• Athlete’s foot
• Hammertoes
• Dry or cracked skin

By keeping your feet healthy and taking immediate action after injury has occurred, will prevent serious foot complications. If you suspect that you have foot ulcer, you must seek treatment from your podiatrist right away.

Infection can be prevented thru comprehensive care and education. Minor cuts or even cracks from a dry skin can turn into ulcers. Your podiatrists can treat your foot ulcer by cleaning and disinfecting, applying a dressing, prescribing antibiotics, and if necessary, surgical debridement to remove infected tissue. To protect the area and preserve the dressing placed on your foot, use a plastic covering it while bathing. If the infection has reached the bone and is unmanageable, amputation maybe the only option to protect the rest of your limb.

The best method to prevent foot ulcers and infection is to stop them from happening at all by maintaining optimal glucose levels, inspecting your feet daily, wearing comfortable shoes, socks, and seeing your podiatric doctor once a year. If you suffer from diabetes and peripheral vascular disease, you should see your podiatrist as soon as any injury or problem occurs. Early detection of a foot problem is essential to prevent ulcers and infections. Your podiatrist is critical to your health and well being if you are diabetic or have a peripheral vascular disease.

Phone: (505) 883-6600 |info@angelafootdoctor.com