Diabetes affects individuals globally and can influence nearly every system in the body. One significant complication involves the development of non-healing wounds, particularly on the feet. Effective wound management by foot and ankle specialists remains a central component of overall diabetes care. Proper attention to these injuries helps prevent infection and promotes healing, supporting a patient’s long-term health and mobility.
What Are Diabetic Wounds?
Diabetic wounds, often referred to as diabetic ulcers, are open sores or injuries that struggle to heal naturally. These typically appear on the foot but can affect other areas of the body. High blood glucose levels over time may damage nerves (neuropathy) and blood vessels. When neuropathy occurs, a patient may lose sensation in their feet. This loss of feeling means a small cut, blister, or pebble in a shoe might go unnoticed. Without the signal of pain, a minor injury can worsen significantly before the individual realizes there is a problem.
High blood sugar can cause poor circulation by narrowing blood vessels. Blood carries oxygen and nutrients necessary for tissue repair. When circulation is compromised, injuries do not receive the resources needed to close and heal. This combination of numbness and poor blood flow can create an environment where small abrasions can transform into ulcers. These wounds are susceptible to bacterial infection, which may spread to the bone or bloodstream if not addressed promptly.
What Are the Symptoms?
Recognizing the early signs of a diabetic wound allows for faster intervention. Because nerve damage can mask pain, visual inspection becomes the primary method for identifying issues. Patients should look for specific changes in the skin or foot structure. Redness and swelling often appear, and the skin around a developing ulcer may feel warm to the touch. A distinct odor may also accompany pus or a fluid discharge.
Calluses are another warning sign. A thickening can build up pressure on the skin underneath, eventually causing it to break down and form an ulcer. Sometimes, systemic symptoms accompany the local wound. Regular self-exams remain the best defense against these symptoms progressing unnoticed.
What Does Wound Care Involve?
Managing a diabetic ulcer requires a comprehensive approach. The primary goal is to close the wound quickly and reduce the risk of infection. Treatment plans vary based on the severity of the ulcer, but several core principles apply.
Debridement
This process involves the removal of dead or infected tissue, allowing healthy tissue to grow. Foot and ankle specialists may use surgical tools, specialized dressings, or topical agents to clear away necrotic material. This step helps the body focus its energy on repairing viable skin rather than fighting dead tissue.
Off-loading
Pressure can prevent healing, and off-loading shifts the weight away from the injury. This might involve wearing a specialized cast or custom orthotics. In some cases, using crutches or a wheelchair provides the necessary relief for the area to recover.
Speak to Foot and Ankle Specialists
Early intervention changes outcomes significantly. While daily self-inspection helps, professional evaluation provides the tools needed for recovery. Podiatrists and wound care specialists possess the expertise to assess the depth of an ulcer accurately. They can also prescribe advanced therapies, such as skin substitutes, for stubborn wounds. Establishing a relationship with a specialist before a crisis occurs allows for preventative care.
