Diabetic Wound Care

Diabetic Wound Care in Ozone Park, NY

Diabetic foot treatment and care, Diabetic Ulcers Treatment & Management in the Queens County, NY: Ozone Park (Forrest Hills, Howard Beach, Jamaica, East New York, Hollis, Laurelton, Flushing, Elmhurst, Elmont, Bushwick, Williamsburg) and Nassau County, NY: Manhasset (Great Neck, Garden City, Mineola, Westbury, Roslyn, Jericho, Hempstead, Hicksville, Glen Cove, East Meadow) areas

Diabetics must be wary of all wounds and ulcers, regardless of depth or size. Ulcers are open sores or wounds that develop from tissue loss on the skin. Typically these sores can become very painful. Diabetes, a chronic disease in which the body cannot properly use glucose the way it normally would, causes various complications that make wounds difficult to heal. Nerve damage or neuropathy can cause diabetics to have trouble feeling the pain of a blister or cut until the condition has significantly worsened or become infected. A diabetic’s weakened immune system can make even the most minor of wounds easily susceptible to infection.

Diabetics are also more prone to developing narrow, clogged arteries, and are therefore more likely to develop wounds.

Wounds should be taken care of immediately after discovery, as even the smallest of wounds can become infected if enough bacteria build up within the wound. To remove dirt, wounds should first be rinsed under running water only. Soap, hydrogen peroxide, or iodine can irritate the injury and should be avoided. To prevent infection, apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover it with a bandage. The bandage should be changed daily. The skin around the wound may be cleaned with soap. As the wound heals, make sure to avoid applying pressure to the affected area.

Daily inspection of the feet is key in preventing the formation of wounds and ulcers, and at first sign of development, one should immediately contact his or her podiatrist. Ulcers are commonly found on the bottom of the feet. Depending on the severity of the ulcer, it may take weeks to months for foot ulcers to properly heal.

Call our practice today to have Dr. Micallef treat your diabetic wound and provide tips on diabetic foot care.

Wound Care (FAQs)

What are diabetic foot wounds?
Diabetic foot wounds are cuts, scrapes, or sores that occur on the feet of people who have diabetes. Although they may seem inconsequential, even small wounds are a cause for concern. This is because people with diabetes are less likely to feel the wound due to nerve damage in the feet, delaying treatment until the wound has progressed. Poor circulation to the feet can also make the wounds heal slowly, increasing the risk of infection. Left untreated, wounds can turn into diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). 
Why do diabetic wounds heal slowly?
Diabetic wounds tend to heal slowly because many people with diabetes also have poor circulation in their lower limbs. When there is inadequate blood flow to the feet and ankles, the nutrients needed for efficient, effective healing cannot get to the wounds quickly enough. When the wounds heal slowly and poorly, the chances of further damage to the surrounding skin and infection go up. 
What should I do if I notice a diabetic foot wound?
If you are diabetic and notice a wound on your foot, you should seek the care of a podiatrist as soon as possible. The earlier treatment begins, the better your chances are of avoiding complications. 
How are diabetic foot wounds treated?
Treatments for diabetic foot wounds vary depending on the location and severity of the wound. Generally, your podiatrist will focus on disinfecting the wound, removing any dead tissue, and creating an environment on the foot that is conducive to healing. You will likely need to keep any pressure off of the wound while it heals. This can be achieved through resting the affected foot, padding it, wearing orthotics, or using devices designed to off-load pressure.
How can I prevent diabetic foot wounds?
The best way to prevent diabetic foot wounds is to remain proactive. When walking inside or outside the home, wear shoes to protect your feet from injuries. Maintain proper foot hygiene to reduce the risk of infections. Since loss of sensation through diabetic neuropathy is also common among people with diabetes, daily visual inspection of the feet for any cuts, scrapes, sores, wounds, or discoloration is also suggested. If you notice any changes in your feet, you should schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible. 

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Advanced Podiatric Procedures & Services in the Queens County, NY: Ozone Park (Forrest Hills, Howard Beach, Jamaica, East New York, Hollis, Laurelton, Flushing, Elmhurst, Elmont, Bushwick, Williamsburg) and Nassau County, NY: Manhasset (Great Neck, Garden City, Mineola, Westbury, Roslyn, Jericho, Hempstead, Hicksville, Glen Cove, East Meadow) areas