This month, the doctors at the New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group are using this time to raise more awareness about diabetes. The condition impacts millions of Americans, and foot complications are common. One of the most common concerns is a diabetic foot ulcer or wound. If left untreated, the wound can become infected. More seriously, the infection can spread throughout the body and increase the risk of amputation.
How do you care for an ulcer? Here are three easy steps.
Call
Before you plan your at-home treatment schedule, call your podiatrist. We want to know about slow-healing wounds or non-healing wounds. We will also want to learn more about signs of infection, pain levels, etc.
Clean
One of the biggest concerns with this complication is infection. We encourage patients to clean the wound and keep it covered with a bandage. We may provide additional treatment if we detect infection. We also share additional at-home steps to follow between visits to our office.
Care
Once we have determined that the ulcer is beginning to heal, we want to reduce the amount of pressure on the wound. We may suggest an orthotic to reduce pressure to a problem area. We may also recommend other ways to limit friction or irritation. Allow your body time to heal and listen to your doctor’s advice.
At the New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group, there are almost 30 foot and ankle surgeons, podiatrists, and doctors. With more than 30 locations, from Newark, NJ, to Cape May, NJ, we value convenience and excellent service for our patients. We offer compassionate, cutting-edge care across our network, and we specialize in treating the following conditions: ankle and sports injuries, heel pain and plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, corns and calluses, ingrown toenails, diabetic foot care complications, children’s foot problems, skin conditions of the feet, and fungal nails. Our group is among the best foot and ankle providers in the country. To schedule an appointment, first find a podiatrist in your area.
