Diabetic wounds
A serious complication resulting from diabetes is a diabetic wound; these wounds heal less effectively than non-diabetic wounds due, amongst other things, to impaired blood circulation and postural abnormalities, which cause excess pressure at the site of the wound. There are various types of diabetic wounds; the podiatrist will assess which type of diabetic wound you have and draw up a treatment plan accordingly.
When to see a podiatrist...
You may be referred to a podiatrist for various stages or grades of wounds that show no signs of healing within two weeks. You will be referred to a podiatrist once the wound has been identified. If the wound is very deep or if there is very poor blood circulation, you will be referred to a foot clinic within the hospital. At a foot clinic, various disciplines work together, enabling more targeted wound treatment to take place.
You experience pain when signs of inflammation occur, such as a fever, redness and/or a warm foot or a warm patch on the foot.
A treatment
The treatment involves cleaning the wound, removing calluses around and on the wound, and removing dead skin until healthy skin is visible. As part of this, the cause of the wound is investigated and, where possible within the scope of podiatry, the cause will be addressed. An anti-pressure dressing is also applied to relieve pressure on the wound. Additionally, pressure-relieving podiatric insoles will be fitted, and advice will be given on footwear to help reduce pressure on the diabetic wound.
In addition, the podiatrist will explain the importance of good blood sugar control and that adherence to the treatment plan – in terms of wound care, following footwear advice and adhering to lifestyle guidelines – is essential.
The expected outcome for early-stage diabetic ulcers and with good blood circulation is favourable. The outcome worsens as the severity of the diabetic ulcer increases and when complications arise. If you have had a diabetic ulcer, there is a higher risk of developing further diabetic ulcers. Regular check-ups are necessary to identify risks of new diabetic wounds at an early stage and to adjust treatment accordingly.
