According to a Houston podiatrist for diabetics, a diabetic foot is a condition that affects people with diabetes, where high blood sugar levels cause damage to the nerves and blood vessels in the feet. It leads to decreased blood flow to the feet and a loss of sensation, making it difficult to feel pain or injuries to the feet. As a result, wounds and ulcers go unnoticed and untreated, leading to complications such as infections, gangrene, and even amputation.Prevent diabetic foot by maintaining blood sugar control, regularly checking the feet for signs of injury, and practicing good foot hygiene. Diabetic patients should wear properly fitting shoes,avoid shoes with open toes, and walk barefoot.If a person with diabetes develops a foot ulcer or infection, they should visit a Houston Diabetic Wound Care Specialistimmediately to prevent it from worsening. Houston diabetic foot care treatment may involve cleaning the wound, antibiotics, and in severe cases, surgery to remove infected tissue or amputate the affected limb.
Management of Diabetic Foot
The management of diabetic foot depends on the severity of the condition. In general, the treatment is to prevent further damage and promote the healing of any existing ulcers or wounds.
Medical management involves controlling blood sugar levels, managing any underlying medical conditions such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol, and addressing any infections with antibiotics. Additionally, wound care such as cleaning, dressing changes, and offloading pressure from the affected foot are important aspects of medical management.
Surgical management may be necessary in cases where there is a deep infection or if the ulcer is not healing despite medical treatment. Surgery may involve removing infected tissue or bone, debridement (removal of dead tissue), or even amputation in severe cases.
A combination of medical and surgical management may be necessary to wholly treat diabetic foot. Individuals with diabetes need to seek prompt medical attention for any foot injuries or infections to prevent further complications. Regular foot exams and good foot hygiene are essential in preventing diabetic foot complications from occurring.
Diabetic foot issues are uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing pain in your foot or ankle, contact the podiatrist at DeNiel Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Complications
These arise due to nerve and blood vessel damage and they can lead to significant morbidity and mortality if not managed properly. Patients with diabetes should monitor their feet regularly, wear proper shoes, and seek medical attention promptly if they notice any signs of injury or infection.Common complications include:
· Foot ulcers are wounds or sores that do not heal, often located on the bottom of the foot or around the big toe.
· Infections by bacteria enter the body through open sores or ulcers. In severe cases,infections can spread to the bone or other parts of the body.
· Gangreneis where tissues in the foot die due to lack of blood flow, and it can lead to amputation.
· Charcot footwhere the bones in the foot weaken and fracture due to nerve damage, leading to foot deformities and an increased risk of ulcers and infections.
· Peripheral arterial disease is the narrowing or blockage of blood vessels that supply blood to the feet, causing pain, cramping, and a decreased ability to heal.
· Osteomyelitis is a bone infection that occurs in the feet and causes significant pain, fever, and other systemic symptoms.
