Foot wounds are injuries that break the skin on the foot. If cared for properly, they should heal and not cause serious problems. If one is diabetic, there are more risks for infection and medical treatment should be obtained immediately. Whether serious or minor, the treatment for a foot wound involves keeping it clean and covering it with a bandage until it heals. Before doing anything, the hands should be washed with soap and clean water so that bacteria will not be transferred into the wound and cause an infection. Alcohol, peroxide, or harsh antiseptics should not be used as these could inflame a wound. Never use a dirty towel to apply pressure to the wound. Keep the wound moist with an antibacterial cream or petroleum jelly as this will excel healing. Bandage the wound, making sure the sticky part of the bandage is not touching it. Change the bandage every 24 hours or more frequently to prevent it from getting dirty or wet from wound secretions. Wounds that are larger or will not stop bleeding may need stitches. Make sure tetanus shot status is up to date and consider a tetanus booster for a deep wound. Depending on your comfort in taking care of a foot wound, a chiropodist can help ensure it is taken care of properly.
Wound care is the process of treating and preventing wounds on the feet. This is especially important if you have diabetes, as diabetic foot wounds are common and can lead to serious complications when left untreated. To learn more about proper wound care, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Why Is Wound Care Important for Diabetics?
While wound care is important for maintaining the health of your feet, it is especially important for people with diabetes. This is because diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation, causing foot wounds to heal very slowly or not to heal at all. Diabetics also frequently suffer from neuropathy or nerve loss. This means no matter how big or little the wound, they might not feel it on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. This is why it is imperative that diabetics complete daily foot checks.
Wound Care Basics
The best way to care for wounds is to prevent them in the first place. It is recommended that people with diabetes perform a daily examination of their feet to locate cuts, scrapes, sores, or wounds. Early detection allows for ample time to treat the wounds and prevent further complications. If you notice a wound at home, you can clean it using water, apply an antibiotic ointment, and cover the wound with a clean bandage. Seeing a chiropodist, who can examine your feet thoroughly and treat any existing wounds, can also help you maintain proper foot health.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
