Learn techniques for better diabetic wound care.Putting your best foot forward takes on a whole new meaning for those with diabetes! Foot ulcers are common in diabetics, resulting from neuropathy (nerve damage that reduces the sensation of pain), circulation problems, deformities of the feet, and more. Other risk factors for developing diabetic ulcers include:
Thankfully, there are steps diabetics can take to reduce the chance of developing foot ulcers. Nightingale Homecare, the top providers of the professional in home care Phoenix AZ seniors need, encourages those with diabetes to schedule regular visits with a podiatrist and to take these preventative measures:
- Take a close look each day at your feet for any redness, irritation, bruises, cuts, sores, cracks, blisters, etc. Pay particular attention to the areas between the toes and the soles of the feet. If any irregularities or discomfort are noted, schedule an appointment with the podiatrist as soon as possible.
- Ask the podiatrist for recommendations on appropriate footwear, and avoid going barefoot, even when at home.
- Make any necessary lifestyle changes to ensure your risk of developing ulcers is minimized: stop smoking, maintain a healthy diet and weight, and limit alcohol consumption.
If a foot ulcer does develop, the podiatrist will want to ensure that:
- Blood sugar is lowered
- The ulcer is properly debrided (dead skin/tissue is removed)
- Any infections are treated
- Pressure and friction of the feet are reduced
- Proper blood flow is restored
The key to healing is early intervention and treatment of the ulcer, and then continued management of the wound until healing is achieved. The podiatrist may recommend a topical medication and dressings to keep the wound clean and free of infection. In severe cases, surgery may be required, although this is the exception rather than the rule.
Did you know that Nightingale Homecare provides highly skilled wound and ostomy care for seniors struggling with diabetic foot ulcers, as well as for pressure ulcers, surgical wounds, venous stasis ulcers, arterial ulcers, and more – right in the comfort of home?
Our home health care services make healing easier and more comfortable for seniors, with a full range of customized care provided by registered nurses, home health aides, and non-medical companions, to ensure that each individual’s particular needs are addressed and that quality of life, health and overall wellbeing are enhanced.
Contact the professional care team at Nightingale Homecare any time by calling (602) 504-1555 or by completing our simple online contact form to schedule a free in-home assessment or to allow us to answer any questions you may have.
