Diabetic Foot Ulcers and Wound Care is of the Utmost Importance

Diabetic wound care is very important for those with diabetes. The pain and infections associated with lack of proper care is life threatening. In particular, foot ulcers usually happen on the bottom of feet. Our podiatrist, Dr. Joel S. Segalman, at the Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC, treats a variety of foot and ankle health conditions including this condition. Visit Dr. Segalman at our Waterbury and Newtown, Connecticut locations. Dr. Segalman previously worked with the New York Kicks and currently works with a professional soccer team and has specialized knowledge to help you today!

It’s very important for diabetics to address open wounds on their feet with the utmost care. Diabetic Foot Ulcers occur as gaps in the skin of the foot that expose the tissue underneath. Ischemic ulcers are serious and can result from a lack of blood flow. These types of diabetic foot ulcers take a while to get better because of lessened blood flow. Neuropathic ulcers on the other hand result in numbness to the feet. When these two types of ulcers occur at the same time, the effects are more serious as blood is reduced and numbness increases. Amputations are the severest of options. 

There are however some ways to prevent amputation such as only removing the infected skin from the ulcer. Decreasing pressure around the ulcer is also helpful. Medicines are another source of treatment. All diabetics have the potential to develop foot ulcers. Certain ethnic groups such as Native Americans, African Americans or Hispanics are also more likely to get ulcers. Those diabetics that use insulin and also have another disease are usually at a higher risk of developing foot ulcers. Those who are overweight or drink large amounts of alcohol or smoke tobacco products frequently have high risks of the progression of foot ulcers.

As you can see, diabetic ulcers can lead to severe situations, especially for those with a later stage of diabetes. If you have diabetes, contact our office for an appointment as soon as possible. We will determine the best course of treatment specifically tailored for your wonderful feet!