Diabetic ulcers, left untreated, may lead to a variety of severe complications such as gangrene, osteomyelitis or even a foot amputation. People with diabetes have high levels of glucose, or sugar, in the blood. This high glucose level damages blood circulation and nerve systems in the body, especially in the feet. Diabetic neuropathy often occurs, resulting in a person's inability to feel cuts, bruises and other forms of trauma to the foot. Injury to the foot may not be immediately identified because of the sensory loss. Patients must closely monitor and treat diabetic ulcers to prevent further complications.
Step 1
Keep the ulcer clean to avoid further infection from developing. Wash your feet daily with warm water or saline solution. Use a mild soap to avoid further irritation. Pat the area dry with a clean, dry towel. Do not rub the area when drying. Use a hair dryer on low setting to dry the skin between the toes.
Step 2
Apply any prescribed medications or ointments to the wound. Cover the ulcer with a clean, sterile bandage or dressing. Medical professionals often advise moist dressings to promote healing of the wound, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association. Do not wrap the dressing too tightly or it can reduce blood circulation.
Step 3
Decrease the time spent standing or walking, and increase periods of rest throughout the day. Some doctors may encourage patients to walk on the injured foot as little as possible. Decreasing the amount of pressure on the foot is called "off-loading." Additional methods, besides rest, to decrease the weight load on the foot include using a cane, walker or medical boots designed to treat foot problems. The American Diabetes Association states that walking on a diabetic ulcer forces the infection deeper into the foot, causing further damage. A doctor may provide special braces or shoes to decrease the amount of pressure on the foot. When resting, keep the head of the bed elevated, with the feet lower than the bed, suggests Penn State's Milton S. Hershey Medical Center College of Medicine.
Step 4
Take all antibiotics as prescribed by your medical doctor. Do not skip doses or stop taking medication early, even if the ulcer appears to be healing. Maintain your blood sugar levels properly. Follow your medical doctor's advice and treatment plan. High blood sugar levels prevent diabetic foot ulcers from healing fast.
Step 5
Continue to monitor your feet after the ulcer has healed. The area may easily break down in comparison to other areas. Wear special orthotic shoes if recommended by your doctor. Inspect and wash your feet daily. Look for signs of infection such as redness, ingrown toenails, cracking or peeling skin. Use a mirror if you are unable to see all areas of your foot, or have a friend or relative assist you. A medical professional should examine any new signs of infection. Even small cuts and bruises quickly become ulcers when diabetes is present.
Tips and Warnings
- Ulcers commonly form on the bottom of the foot or the ball of the big toe, reports the American Diabetes Association. The association adds that tight-fitting shoes commonly cause ulcers on the side of the foot.
- If treatment is not working, do not hesitate seeking additional medical attention. Surgery and debridement are additional clinical options, which may be necessary to stop the spread of infection.
Things You'll Need
- Water or saline solution
- Mild soap
- Dry towel
- Hair dryer
- Prescription medications
- Sterile bandages or dressings
- Shoes or braces
- Antibiotics
- Mirror
