Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores that occur in patients with diabetes mellitus. These ulcers often develop due to peripheral neuropathy and poor circulation, both common complications of diabetes. Diabetic foot complications, including ulcers, significantly impact the quality of life for persons with diabetes. Prevention of foot ulcers and effective management are crucial to avoid serious outcomes, such as extremity amputation.

Causes and Risk Factors for Diabetic Foot Ulceration

Peripheral Neuropathy and Sensory Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy, particularly sensory neuropathy, leads to reduced sensation in the feet. This makes people with diabetes less likely to feel injuries or irritation, increasing the risk of foot ulcers.

Poor Circulation and Vascular Disease

Poor circulation caused by vascular complications, including arterial disease and damaged blood vessels, limits blood flow to the feet. This restricts healing and increases the risk of infection and diabetic foot ulceration.

Duration of Diabetes and Glycemic Control

Long-term diabetes and poor glycaemic control heighten the risk of diabetic foot disease. Patients with diabetes should monitor blood glucose levels closely to reduce this risk.

Additional Risk Factors

Risk factors such as a history of amputation, severe neuropathy, and foot deformity further increase the likelihood of diabetic foot ulcers. Clinical risk factors, including poor blood pressure regulation and microvascular complications, also contribute to the development of chronic foot ulcers.

Signs and Symptoms

Diabetic foot ulcers often begin as small sores or deep ulcers on the foot. Common symptoms include:

Complications of Untreated Ulcers

Untreated ulcers in patients with diabetes can lead to infected foot ulcers, moderate-to-severe diabetic foot infections, and even limb amputation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns about the increased risk of amputation rates in patients with diabetes.

Prevention of Foot Ulcers

Regular Foot Exams

Conduct a 3-minute diabetic foot exam regularly to detect early signs of diabetic foot ulceration. Health care providers recommend routine monitoring for patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Glycemic and Blood Pressure Control

Maintaining optimal blood sugar and blood pressure levels reduces the risk of foot ulcers. Improved glycemic control supports better blood circulation and healing.

Protective Footwear and Hygiene

Wear proper footwear to avoid foot deformities and ensure good hygiene to prevent bacterial infections. Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture, which can lead to dead tissue buildup.

Treatment Options for Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Nonsurgical Treatments

Nonsurgical treatments like antimicrobial therapy, negative pressure wound therapy, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy promote healing. Topical antibiotics and systemic antibiotics treat wound infections and prevent the spread of soft tissue infections.

Adjunctive Therapy

Adjunctive treatments like low-level laser therapy and maggot debridement therapy support tissue regeneration. These therapies, combined with regular Diabetes Care, improve clinical outcomes.

Surgical Management

At times surgical procedures may be necessary for severe cases, such as deep ulcers or complications in patients requiring limb classification. Surgical interventions aim to remove dead tissue and prevent further damage.

VitaVia Medical: Your Partner in Diabetic Foot Ulcer Management

At VitaVia Medical in Houston, Texas, we specialize in comprehensive care for people with diabetes experiencing diabetic foot complications. Our wound care experts focus on the prevention, treatment, and management of diabetic ulcers. We offer:

Advanced therapies like hyperbaric oxygen therapy and negative pressure wound therapy.
Systemic and adjunctive treatments tailored to improve survival in patients.
A dedicated team ensuring the best care for patients with diabetes mellitus.

Improve Your Quality of Life Today

Don’t let diabetic foot ulcers compromise your health. Contact VitaVia Medical for expert care and innovative treatments. Our health care providers help patients achieve better outcomes and prevent complications like limb amputation and chronic infections. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward recovery.