Diabetic Foot Wound Treatment Options

Diabetes can cause damage to the nerves in your feet, which results in a condition called diabetic neuropathy. According to the NIDDK, this lack of sensation can reduce your body’s ability to perceive pain in the feet, which would otherwise be a warning of a more severe condition. If the infection does not heal, it could worsen and develop into gangrene, which can result in a complete amputation of the foot.

If severe enough, Nerve damage may also change the fundamental structure, functionality, and appearance of your foot, which can lead to a condition called Charcot’s foot, which can damage your joints and soft tissue. Since many diabetic patients may not feel any pain in their feet, it is imperative to be mindful of your health. Here are some great ways to care for a diabetic foot wound. 

Move Your Feet Frequently

Walking as often as possible encourages healthy blood flow to your feet, which can help your body fight the infection and heal. Activities that do not put much pressure on your feet, such as walking, dancing, swimming, cycling, or yoga, are all great ways to improve your circulation. You can also put your feet up while sitting or wiggle your toes throughout the day to encourage a healthy blood flow. 

Always Wear Protective Footwear

Wearing protective footwear at all times – even when you’re indoors – is essential for healing a diabetic foot wound because it helps prevent further injury to your foot when your pain receptors are impaired. Athletic shoes with properly fitting socks can help prevent blisters and sores. When buying shoes, avoid materials like plastic or vinyl and ensure that you have enough room for your toes. Wearing protective footwear while you are outside can prevent you from inadvertently burning the bottoms of your feet on hot pavement or sand. 

Check for Any Warning Signs

Checking your feet daily for warning signs of a foot wound can help you catch problems before they worsen. An excellent way to get into this habit is to perform a check in the evening when you take your shoes off for the night. Here are some of the most common problems to look for: 

• Cuts, sores, ulcers, or discoloration
• Blemishes such as abscesses, blisters, warts, etc.
• Nail injuries such as ingrown nails and pus around the nail base.
• Fungal infections such as athlete’s foot
• Stark temperature differences in various parts of the foot
• If you notice any of these symptoms, contact a podiatrist immediately

Clean Your Feet Regularly

Cleaning your feet daily not only helps prevent infection but is a great way to feel refreshed at the end of a long day. After washing your feet with warm water, dry them thoroughly and apply talcum powder or cornstarch, including in between your toes. If you have corns or calluses, avoid treating them aggressively, as such an injury can lead to the development of an ulcer. It is also important to avoid soaking your feet in hot water, as doing so can cause them to dry out. 

Don’t Cut Your Toenails Too Short or Deep into the Nail Base

Cutting your toenails keeps them from cutting and growing into your skin, but did you know that cutting too short or deep into the nail base can result in ingrown toenails? Trimming your toenails as needed after washing your feet is a vital habit for preventing foot wounds. Avoid cutting into the corners of your nail – instead, trim them straight across and then smooth each one out with a nail file. If you cannot see, reach, or feel your feet or otherwise have thick, yellow, or curved nails, you can have your foot doctor assist you. 

Get Diabetic Foot Treatment In Maryland

While foot problems are common in people with diabetes, you can reduce your chances of developing any issues by regularly caring for your feet. In addition to moving your feet frequently, wearing protective footwear, and regularly maintaining your feet, you can work with your health care team to create a customized plan to help you manage your condition. 

If you are currently struggling to care for a diabetic foot found, suspect that you have an infection, or have a callus with dried blood in it, contact Thomas Podiatry Associates today to schedule an appointment with our gentle and caring team. We look forward to helping you heal!