Wisdom for Wound Care

Have you ever wondered if you should handle your diabetic foot ulcer at home? If you are deciding whether to call your podiatrist, here is the answer: yes, and always. We want to know about slow-healing cuts and wounds on your feet. Without treatment and attention, there are many reasons to worry. Infection and limb amputation are two examples.
For the doctors at New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group, talking with patients about daily foot checks is a priority. We know it can mean the difference between noticing a cut right on time — or way too late. We want to help with prevention, too, which includes managing blood sugar levels and putting down the cigarettes for good.
Here is how you should handle an ulcer:
Start with a cleaning routine
One of the best ways to stay ahead of infection is by keeping your cut clean and dry. We want you to use clean hands, and we also want you to be gentle around your wound. If you begin noticing that things are worsening, contact our team. Look for redness, pain, swelling, and even discharge.
- Change bandages regularly
- Take pictures to document progress
- Keep in contact with your podiatrist
Don’t walk barefoot
Find ways to keep your wound out of harm’s way. This includes keeping your feet covered. While bandages help, socks and shoes do, too. Ask your podiatrist about how custom orthotics can help your condition. Remember to do your best to keep pressure from your wound.
- Consider crutches or a cane
- Rest or elevate your legs
- Contact your podiatrist if pain gets worse
Keep us in the loop
If you think you should tackle wound care alone, think again. We are here to give you the tips and resources to continue care at home, but we want you to begin with expert advice. Do you know what to do if you notice an infection? Call us. We’re here to help.
- Check your feet regularly
- Call us for every cut or wound
- Don’t underestimate untreated cuts
Do you still have questions about wound care? No worries. We’re here to walk you through the next steps.
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.