{"id":3889,"date":"2022-03-14T01:06:38","date_gmt":"2022-03-14T01:06:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/coronafootandankle.com\/?p=3889"},"modified":"2023-01-10T06:34:47","modified_gmt":"2023-01-10T06:34:47","slug":"diabetes-treatment-options-for-chronic-wounds","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/coronafootandankle.com\/diabetes-treatment-options-for-chronic-wounds\/","title":{"rendered":"Diabetes: Treatment Options for Chronic Wounds"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Diabetic patients are at high risk of developing sores and ulcers on the feet, ankles, and lower legs that are difficult to treat. Without proper care, a tiny cut or broken blister can grow into an open wound that may lead to serious infection, gangrene, and even amputation. Awareness of the danger is the first step to preventing such complications, but equally important is finding a medical provider with the knowledge and skill to effectively treat chronic wounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Dangers of Diabetes and Chronic Leg Wounds<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Diabetes contributes to the formation of ulcers for several reasons. The high blood sugar levels that characterize diabetes can damage your nerves and blood vessels over time, especially when those levels are poorly controlled. Diabetes is also linked to a condition known as peripheral artery disease (PAD), which diminishes blood flow to the legs and feet.<\/p>\n\n\n

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\"Diabetic<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Lowered blood flow to your extremities impedes your body\u2019s ability to heal sores and cuts and to fight off infections. On top of that, diabetic nerve damage makes it harder to feel when you\u2019ve gotten a minor injury like a nick or scrape, increasing the odds that you\u2019ll overlook a small wound until it has become larger, infected, and harder to treat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The good news is that proper diabetes management and wound care can greatly reduce the chances that an unremarkable injury will lead to a below-the-knee amputation. However, vigilance and prompt, expert treatment is vital in preserving your limb. When nonhealing ulcers progress to the point of causing severe damage to tissues and bones, surgical removal of the affected area may be the only option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Treating Diabetic Wounds<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you have a diabetic foot, ankle, or leg wound, you should immediately consult a podiatrist with expertise in wound care<\/a>. At Corona Foot and Ankle, we strongly urge our patients to come in even if they think an injury is too small to be a serious concern\u2014proactive treatment can help identify underlying issues and prevent bigger problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When we\u2019ve done a comprehensive exam to ensure we understand all the factors involved, we devise a care plan to promote healing while guarding against infection. Treating the cause of the wound rather than just the symptoms is essential for success. Your plan can include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n