Diabetic Foot Ulcer
The following is presented by the Regenerative Medicine program at Healthpointe:
What is a diabetic foot ulcer?
A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore or wound that occurs in individuals with diabetes, and typically the ulcer is located on the bottom of the foot.
Some statistics involving diabetic foot ulcers include:
- 15 percent of people with diabetes develop a foot ulcer
- 6 percent of people who develop a foot ulcer will be hospitalized due to an infection or other ulcer-related complication
- 14 to 24 percent of people who develop a foot ulcer will require an amputation
What is the cause of diabetic foot ulcer?
Anyone who has diabetes can develop a foot ulcer. People with diabetes are at particular risk for complications from wound healing due to multiple factors including:
- Diabetes decreases blood flow, so injuries are slower to heal
- Many people with diabetes also have neuropathy (reduced sensation in their hands or feet) so they do not notice an injury right away
What are the symptoms of diabetic foot ulcers?
Often times, people with diabetes have lost the ability to feel pain, so pain is not a common symptom. Some symptoms to look out for include drainage from your socks, redness, swelling, and possibly an odor. If you are a diabetic, it is important to take good care of your feet, and check them every day.
What are the treatment options for diabetic foot ulcers?
The primary goal in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers is to facilitate healing as soon as possible. Some treatment options include:
- Preventing the infection in the first place
- Taking the pressure of the area (off-loading)
- Removing dead skin and tissue (debridement)
- Applying medication or dressings to the ulcer
- Managing blood glucose and other health problems
When should I seek medical treatment for my diabetic foot ulcer?
As soon as you notice a foot ulcer, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Foot ulcers in diabetic individuals should be treated immediately to reduce the risk of infection and amputation.
Healthpointe now offers a Regenerative Medicine Program that provides effective and non-invasive wound care options to treat complex problems and non-healing wounds. Call Healthpointe today to receive immediate medical attention for your diabetic ulcer issues.
Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including La Mirada, which is conveniently located by Whittier, La Habra, Norwalk, Cerritos, Buena Park, and Santa Fe Springs. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit Healthpointe.net.