Why are people with diabetes more prone to foot ulcers?

Diabetes increases a patient’s chances of having a foot ulcer. However, diabetics tend not to notice blood loss and wounds as quickly as those without diabetes because they are less sensitive to pain.

Often, this means that diabetics will suffer more tissue damage than normal because of a delayed reaction to the njury. Therefore, you may find that people with diabetes are more likely to need amputations on certain parts of their lower body. Fortunately, seeking proper diabetic foot ulcer care can help reduce your chances of needing amputation later in life.

What is a diabetic foot ulcer?

A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore or wound on the foot that is caused by reduced blood circulation. It affects approximately 15% of patients with diabetes. Diabetic foot injuries are caused by a breakdown of skin and bones in the feet and toes. Such injuries typically manifest as open sores or wounds on the bottom of one’s feet. 

The most common complication of diabetic foot ulcers is infection. To prevent this, it is important to let the wound heal quickly with proper treatment.

Why is wound care so important for diabetic foot ulcers?

According to our diabetic foot specialists in Hialeah and Miami, the goal of treatment is to ensure that a foot ulcer heals. When treating foot ulcers, doctors may deem it necessary to remove dead tissue from the wound. This is done under anesthesia. After the wound has been cleaned, covered, and bandaged it is important that you keep the foot clean.

It is known that people with diabetes are more prone to infections, so you should keep an eye on your wounds to ensure they don't develop into something worse. If any of your wounds seem to worsen, it is imperative for you to see a doctor right away. If the wound becomes infected with bacteria, and the healing process does not take place, amputation may be required to prevent additional complications.

How to care for diabetic foot ulcers?

Here are some tips on how to care for diabetic foot ulcers:

• Keep the wound dry.

• Change the dressing every day.

• Change the dressing when it gets wet or dirty.
• Clean between the toes with a cotton ball each day, using soap and water. This is important for preventing infections between your toes, where it might be hard to see any signs of infection until it becomes very serious and causes deep problems for your feet. 
• Keep the bandage dry and clean at all times; change out for a clean and fresh dressing as needed (once or twice per day).

Where can I find diabetic foot care near me?

If you are looking for diabetic foot ulcer care, don’t hesitate to contact our doctors at Florida Foot and Ankle Associates. Our caring and compassionate staff will be there to support you every step of the way. From routine foot care to more specialized treatment, our diabetic foot specialists in Miami, Hialeah, Hollywood, and other South Florida locations are trained in new methods and advanced equipment in podiatry.

Our medical facility and doctors specialize in the following:

• Diabetic Foot Ulcer Care & Wound Care
• Heel Pain
• Foot and Ankle Surgery
• Foot and Ankle Pain & Injury 
• Fungal Nails Laser Treatment 
• Sports Medicine 
• Children’s feet

and more!

Also, feel free to visit us in any of our convenient locations:

• Miami Dade County (including Miami, Miami Beach, Kendall, Hialeah, Coral Gables) 
• Broward County (Hollywood, Pembroke Pines)
• Palm Beach County (Boca Raton)

We operate at most major hospitals in the region, accept just about every insurance plan, and offer a range of payment options. Our quality care comes with a promise: accessibility and affordability!

If you have any questions, contact us or call us at 786-662-3893.