Find out how our podiatrists treat diabetic wounds and ulcers.
If you have diabetes, you probably know that even the most minor cut could cause severe complications for your health. Since diabetes also restricts blood flow and can lead to nerve damage in the extremities, it’s essential that you turn to our Fort Walton Beach, Crestview, and Niceville, FL, podiatrists Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi and Dr. Neil Patel when even the most minor foot and ankle problems arise.
Why Do Foot Ulcers Form?
Many factors can increase a diabetic individual’s risk of developing wounds or ulcers. Everything from friction to foot abnormalities to poor circulation and injury can lead to this common problem. It’s reported that 15-25 percent of those with diabetes will develop diabetic foot wounds at some point during their lifetime.
It’s crucial that you don’t try and treat diabetic wounds on your own; you need to turn to our Fort Walton Beach, Crestview and Niceville, FL, foot and ankle team for immediate and expert care.
Why Are Diabetic Wounds Considered an Emergency?
If you have diabetes, then you know the impact this chronic condition can have on your health, particularly the health of your feet. Along with managing your blood sugar with medications and a healthy lifestyle, it’s also vital that you turn to our Fort Walton Beach, Crestview and Niceville, FL, podiatrist for regular checkups at least once a year. Having a trusted podiatrist is imperative because when problems arise, you never have to wonder where to turn. You’ll always get the immediate care you need when diabetic wounds, ulcers and other serious issues present themselves.
How Are Diabetic Wounds Treated?
The CDC reports that there are around 130,000 hospitalizations a year for diabetic amputations. With nearly one-quarter of people with diabetes going on to develop wounds, prevention and immediate care are incredibly important. When you come into our office for treatment, we will clean the wound with saline before applying a topical antibiotic to reduce the risk of infection. From there, we will dress the wound to keep bacteria out.
While you may have been told that wounds need air to heal, in this case, the opposite is true. A moist bandage around the wound is essential to help it heal faster. Our team will also provide detailed instructions on dressing and caring for the wound from the comfort of home. While the wound heals, it’s important that you avoid putting pressure on the foot. Our podiatrists may recommend wearing a protective shoe or boot to provide “off-loading” while the wound heals.
If you are dealing with diabetic wounds, it’s important that you seek immediate care from our Fort Walton Beach, Crestview and Niceville, FL, podiatrists. Call Emerald Coast Podiatry today at the Fort Walton office at (850) 862-4119 or the Crestview office at (850) 682-6522.