Understanding Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Diabetes is recognized as a major public health problem with epidemic proportions across the globe. Despite a larger percentage of the adult population dealing with diabetic disorders, the awareness levels are still very low. Individuals suffering from diabetes should be empowered with knowledge and awareness to manage their condition because a lack of diabetic foot care can lead to severe life-threatening conditions.

Reports by the International Diabetes Federation revealed that due to the lack of awareness around 15% of the diabetic population develop foot ulcers at some point in their lives. Moreover, these foot ulcers contribute to 80% of non-traumatic amputations. Diabetic foot ulcer treatment should be provided promptly because data is evident that foot ulcers contribute to 5% of diabetes related deaths. The data emphasize the importance of diabetic foot care, therefore today’s post highlights strategies for the prevention and management of diabetic foot conditions. 

Risk factors that warrant the need for diabetic foot care

• Neuropathy: Diabetics often suffer from nerve damage which is also known as diabetic neuropathy. It is a common complication of diabetes which affects an individual’s ability to feel pain, heat, and pressure. Loss of sensation is the reason that diabetics can go on with unnoticed injuries. When left untreated for a longer time, the injuries may progress into foot ulcers. 

For instance, diabetics may not feel pain or recognize the severity of conditions like foot and ankle fractures due to the existing neuropathy. As a result, they may continue to walk or bear weight on the affected foot, further aggravating the fracture and potentially causing open wounds or ulcers.

• Poor blood circulation: Another diabetic complication is reduced blood flow to the lower extremities. The problem of blood circulation hinders the process of wound healing. This is the reason that wounds caused by the smallest of nicks, cuts or blisters can turn into chronic foot ulcers which need extensive treatment or surgical removal in case of complications. 

• Foot deformities: Unmanaged diabetes often leads to structural changes in the foot. For instance, conditions like hammertoes and bunions create excessive pressure on feet, which consequently increases the likelihood of diabetic foot ulcers. 

• Ill-fitted footwear: When an individual suffering from nerve damage and poor blood circulation to the lower limbs wears ill-fitted footwear with inadequate support, it contributes to the risk of foot ulcers. Additionally, the footwear style also contributes to the problem of increased friction and pressure on vulnerable areas where foot ulcers are most likely to develop. 

Effective approaches for diabetic foot ulcer treatment

Wound care: Immediate medical care is essential in case of diabetic wounds that might lead to foot ulcers. Podiatrists may use hydrogels, foams, and alginates for topical wound care. These dressings are soft and highly absorbent to keep the wound size moist. As a result, healthy tissues can be regenerated quickly and the risk of chronic foot ulcers can be reduced. Timely wound care is more comfortable as well as it fastens the recovery process.

Wound surgery: When a wound becomes too chronic or severe that the immune system fails to respond, podiatrists may recommend surgical removal of the dead tissues. It is a bedside surgery which involves the removal of necrotic tissue and bacteria through debridement.  This process contributes to faster wound healing and prevents the condition from getting worse and requiring foot amputation. 

Reducing pressure on the feet: offloading or pressure reduction is the ideal approach to promote faster ulcer healing.  Depending on the severity of the condition, podiatrists may recommend customized footwear, orthotic inserts or foot casting. These approaches help in reducing weight from the site of the wound to prevent further complications. 

Advanced Therapies: Early detection of diabetic wounds and regular podiatrist visits are essential for managing diabetic foot issues effectively. Delayed treatment can lead to non-healing ulcers which require advanced treatment options to facilitate the healing process. In some cases, types of foot surgery, such as debridement, reconstructive procedures, and corrective surgeries are performed. These surgeries are only considered when conservative treatments fail.  Slight discomfort and swelling might be experienced at the site of surgery. Moreover, patients might need to use crutches or a wheelchair to promote healing.

Prevention strategies for diabetic foot ulcers  

• Regular foot examinations: It is recommended to visit a podiatrist at least once in a month to detect early signs of foot deformities. Annual foot examinations are also helpful in the timely identification and intervention of the complications of nerve damage and affected blood circulation. 

• Footwear selection: As stated earlier, ill-fitted footwear increases the risk of ulcer formation. Such complications can be prevented by consulting a podiatrist for the ideal footwear style. Based on your condition, they can recommend custom orthotics or tailor-made diabetic footwear that provide ample support. 

• Diabetes management: It is important to take your diabetes medication regularly and pay attention to your diet to mitigate the risk of diabetic complications. Consult a podiatrist for any lifestyle adjustments if you are at risk of developing foot ulcers. 

Conclusion

Diabetic foot ulcers are a major complication for individuals suffering from diabetic neuropathy and blood circulation problems. Hence, raising awareness about preventive measures and treatment modalities is crucial to help diabetics in the management of wounds and ulcers. Regular foot examinations, meticulous wound care, and adherence to diabetes management principles are essential for diabetic foot ulcer management.  

So, don't let diabetic foot complications or foot and ankle issues hold you back – take the first step towards healthier feet and improved mobility. If you are a diabetic and searching for exceptional diabetic foot care then consult the experienced podiatrists at Orange County Foot and Ankle Group! With offices in Fullerton, Tustin and Huntington Beach, the highly experienced foot doctors are recognized for providing top-notch diabetic foot ulcer treatment and personalized care for foot and ankle surgeries. Schedule your appointment today and reduce the risk of diabetes related foot complications.