Preventing Wounds In The Diabetic Patient

As part of Alameda’s Community Health Calendar, Dr. Jorge Gonzalez made a presentation about “Diabetic Wound Prevention” to the Seniors at the Jankowski Community Center.

Here's an excerpt with important information:

Patients with diabetes are at a heightened risk of amputation of the foot and toes. Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease that causes nerve damage and narrowed arteries. These factors hinder the healing process. Patients who don’t properly care for their wounds put themselves at risk of gangrene and amputation. That’s why it’s so important for people with diabetes to take special care of their feet, such as with these three preventative measures:

• Check your feet on a daily basis. Set aside some time to inspect your feet. If you can’t reach, have a significant other inspect them for you or use a mirror. Look for cuts, blisters, calluses, red spots, swelling and foreign bodies. You should also have your podiatrist check your feet at least once or twice a year.
• Be sure to wash your feet every day! Use mild soap in tepid water (avoid hot water, which can cause scalding and blisters). After washing your feet, dry thoroughly. Apply lotion to keep the skin smooth and pliable, this helps protect against fissures. Don’t run the lotion between your toes, as this creates a moist breeding ground for bacteria. Lotions specifically geared for diabetic patients are available, though you should consult a clinician before using this product.
• You can also prevent injuries to the feet by selecting proper footwear and wearing socks at all times. Your shoes should be comfortable and snug to avoid rubbing that can cause lesions. Additionally, check the insides of your shoes before putting them on to make sure there are no objects in them.

In conclusion, diabetes can cause elevated blood glucose levels. This leads to nerve damage, which leads to loss of sensation in the feet. When you have trouble feeling your feet, it can be difficult to notice when you have a lesion, which is a main factor in why diabetic foot ulcers often go uncared for and why some patients lose limbs to gangrene. You can prevent loss of sensation and reduce your risk of amputation by keeping your blood sugar levels in check. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan closely, and be sure to seek medical attention if you find any abnormality on the feet.
For more information about Alameda Center’s Community Health Calendar please visit: http://alamedacenter.com/