Suffering from diabetic foot ulcers is a frustrating and worrisome experience. Impaired healing of wounds on the feet can lead to a lack of mobility, infection, and even the need for amputation. Thankfully, there are effective treatment options available to facilitate healing for sufferers. Keep reading for the details on this condition and how the right treatment can help.
What Are Diabetic Foot Ulcers?
Foot ulcers occur in approximately 15% of diabetic patients—including those with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Foot ulcers are wounds or open sores typically located on the bottom of feet. Patients who have diabetes for a long period of time or who do not manage their diabetes effectively are more susceptible to ulcers. Other contributing factors include lack of exercise, smoking, being overweight, or having high cholesterol or blood pressure.
Symptoms of foot ulcers include:
- Wounds on feet with or without pain
- Redness and swelling around the wound
- Changes in foot skin temperature and color
- Drainage from the wound
- Foul odor if the ulcer has progressed
Foot ulcers is a preventable condition. However, far too many patients allow the ulcer to progress to the state in which a life-saving amputation must occur.
Effective Treatment for Foot Ulcers
Seeking early treatment of foot wounds or open sores can help diabetic patients with avoid drastic measures like amputations. The latest innovative technologies have led to therapies that stimulate healing and result in faster healing times. The nature of diabetes makes it challenging for patients to heal due to poor circulation, impaired immune systems, and nerve damage. Fortunately, the following treatment options offer new hope for sufferers of foot ulcers:
- Bioengineered Skin Substitutes: A surgeon places the skin substitutes made of living or non-living tissue over the foot wounds to promote the growth of new, healthy skin.
- Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT): An air-tight film serves as a wound dressing that goes over the wound. There is also a drainage tube connected to a suctioning device to draw out excess fluid. And, the suction promotes the growth of healthy tissue. This therapeutic technique facilitates a successful graft.
- Plastic Surgery Grafting: The latest in skin grafting involves plastic surgery techniques that were once only used for other areas of the body. It is far more successful than skin graft procedures doctors performed for foot ulcers in the past.
Turn to Foot Healthcare Associates for the Top Treatments for Foot Wounds
Today’s treatments for diabetic foot ulcers are far more effective than those of the past. At GSFA, our experienced podiatrists in Belleville and Toms River can assess your unique situation and help you to determine the right treatment for the best results. Connect with us now to schedule an appointment.
0 Comments