Open wounds on the feet are common injuries that vary in type and severity. Types include abrasions or scrapes, lacerations or deep cuts, punctures, and ulcers. These wounds are prone to infection without proper care, especially since feet are often exposed to bacteria. In severe cases, untreated wounds can lead to complications like cellulitis, abscess formation, and even tissue death that require more intensive intervention. Basic treatment includes cleaning the wound, applying an antiseptic, and covering it with a sterile dressing. Podiatrists may recommend antibiotics for infections, debridement to remove dead tissue, and wound care products to promote healing and prevent complications. If you have a foot wound due to an underlying medical condition like diabetes, or if you notice signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or worsening pain, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for care.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Plaza Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Baltimore, Lutherville, and Dundalk, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.