Wound Care Specialist

What is a diabetic foot wound?

A diabetic foot wound (ulcer) is an open sore that most often occurs on the bottom of the foot. About 15% of people with diabetes develop foot ulcers. Of this group, about 6% develop an infection or other serious complication that requires hospitalization.

What causes foot wounds?

Because diabetes causes decreased sensation and poor blood circulation to your feet, even seemingly minor wounds quickly escalate into serious problems. Blood carries oxygen and nutrients essential for healing, so reduced blood flow means wounds are slow to heal.

Additionally, diabetes may cause nerve damage (neuropathy) in the feet. This results in decreased pain sensation, so wounds may remain unnoticed for a long time.

When should I see a podiatrist for foot wounds?

Proper diabetic foot care involves inspecting your feet every day. You should call AllCare Foot & Ankle Center as soon as you notice a wound or any other changes to your foot, like redness or swelling.

It’s imperative to act quickly when it comes to wound care. If left untreated, a diabetic foot ulcer can develop into a serious infection in a matter of days. About 14-24% of patients with a diabetic foot ulcer end up needing an amputation, but this is preventable with prompt treatment.

How are diabetic foot wounds treated?

Dr. Tran and the team at AllCare Foot & Ankle Center specialize in diabetic wound care. Their expert podiatrists begin with a complete exam, including neurological, vascular, and orthopedic evaluations.

They thoroughly clean the wound, removing any dead or inflamed tissue. Then, they cover the wound with clean dressings to prevent infection. If you have poor circulation, they may apply compression stockings or bandages to facilitate healing.

In some cases, the team at AllCare Foot & Ankle Center may recommend regenerative medicine with stem cell injections. Studies show stem cell therapy to be a safe and effective treatment for diabetic foot ulcers. The team at AllCare Foot & Ankle Center obtains stem cells from your own fat tissue.

For the most advanced treatment in diabetic wound care, call AllCare Foot & Ankle Center, or book an appointment online today.