Diabetic Foot FAQs: Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Those who have diabetes have increased chances of developing what's known as diabetic foot ulcers. They're often painless, but can be quite troublesome. In fact, these foot sores are one of the most common reasons for hospital stays and are a leading cause of amputations among diabetes patients. If you're a diabetic, there are some things you need to know about this common condition. Here's a brief overview of how to treat existing diabetic ulcers and some tips to help prevent them from developing in the future.
Treating Diabetic Foot Ulcers
If you have any diabetic foot ulcers, your physician may have advised you to care for them by dressing them at home. This process includes cleaning the ulcer and then applying a bandage to it in order to prevent infection. When treating a diabetic foot ulcer, it's best to stay off of your feet if possible to allow the wound to heal. Whatever you do, do not walk barefoot while treating an ulcer unless told otherwise by your physician. Your doctor may also recommend that you keep a close eye on your blood sugar level to help your sores heal faster.
Preventing Diabetic Foot Ulcers
These foot ulcers are usually caused by added pressure on one particular part of your foot, so it's recommended you start wearing diabetic shoes or getting yourself a pair of quality orthotic inserts. By wearing the proper supportive orthopedic shoes, the pressure points will be relieved in order to prevent ulcers from developing in those spots. It's important to make sure that you avoid wearing shoes that are made out of hard materials such as plastic because they're not the ideal to allow air to flow around your feet. Also, keep in mind that you won't want to wear shoes with open or pointed toes. This includes high heels, flip flops and sandals.