Due to the increasing spread of diabetes in society, some unpleasant complications of this disease, such as diabetic foot ulcers, have also increased. Because these wounds are chronic and slow to heal, they have a significant impact on the quality of life and health of diabetic patients.

People with diabetes may have decreased nerve function due to diabetic neuropathy of the peripheral nerves. This means that the nerves that normally transmit the sensation of pain from the feet to the brain are not working well. So the patient may not notice the damage done to their foot.

How can we prevent diabetic foot ulcers?

Prevention of diabetic foot ulcers depends on proper foot care.
Controlling diabetes (blood sugar) by regularly taking medications as prescribed by the medical team, following a healthy diet and lifestyle, and regular exercise will help reduce the risk of diabetic foot complications.

In addition, we should regularly check our feet for any signs of injury. If the blood circulation of the legs is weak and we have numbness, this matter becomes more important. Even if we have problems in checking our feet, we should ask others for help in this field. We should watch out for any of the following symptoms that indicate a foot injury:

incision
a bruise
swelling
scratch
wound
color change
Any skin changes
We should also be careful of any cracks caused by dry skin, as they may turn into sores over time.

In addition, people with diabetes should see a doctor at least once a year for a foot examination. Recognizing symptoms such as decreased sensation in the feet helps prevent diabetic foot ulcers.

Treatment Methods

The primary goal in the treatment of foot ulcers is to heal the wound as soon as possible. The faster the wound heals, the less chance of infection.

There are several key factors in the proper treatment of diabetic foot ulcers:

Prevention of infection
Taking pressure off the injured area
Removal of dead skin and tissue
Use of medicine and proper dressing on the wound
In addition Blood sugar control and management of other underlying diseases.
It is important to understand that not all wounds are infected. However, if the doctor determines that the wound is infected, the treatment plan will include the use of antibiotics, wound care, and possibly hospitalization.

Prevention of infection

We must consider several important factors to prevent wound infection:

Accurate control of blood sugar (glucose) levels
Keep the wound clean
Daily cleaning of the wound and regular change of wound dressing
Do not walk barefoot.

Reducing the pressure on the injured area

In order to heal wounds as quickly as possible. Especially those on the soles of the feet, pressure should be removed from the injured area. The doctor may ask us to use special shoes, a brace (an aid that removes direct pressure from the affected area), a wheelchair, or a cane. These measures reduce the pressure and irritation of the injured area and help speed up the wound healing process.

The science of wound care has made significant progress in recent years. Old beliefs may interfere with the healing process. Today, we know that well-cared-for wounds heal faster and have a lower risk of infection. Therefore, it is not recommended to use betadine, peroxide or any other method without consulting a doctor. Because it may lead to more complications.

Use of medicine and proper dressing on the wound

Proper wound management includes the use of suitable dressings and medications. These drugs range from serum washes to advanced drugs such as growth factors, wound dressings, and skin substitutes.

In order for the wound to heal, there must be blood circulation enough in the wound area. The doctor may examine the person or consult a vascular surgeon to evaluate the blood flow in the foot.

Blood sugar control and management

Accurate blood sugar control is very important in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers. Working closely with your doctor to do this will speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of side effects.

surgery

Most non – infectious foot ulcers heal without surgery. However, in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.