Assoc. Prof. Dr. Aytaç Çetinkaya
Diabetic Foot Ulcer Treatment and Prevention Guide
What measures can be taken to prevent diabetic foot ulcers?
Taking some simple yet effective measures can protect patients’ foot health and prevent serious complications. The main measures include:
1. Regular Foot Inspection
- Inspect your feet daily
- Check for cuts, injuries, blisters, and redness
- Monitor for signs of infection
2. Foot Hygiene
- Wash your feet once a day with warm water
- Avoid using very hot water
- Dry the spaces between your toes thoroughly
3. Moisturizing and Care
- Use moisturizing cream regularly
- Avoid applying cream between your toes
- Prevent fungal infections
4. Correct Shoe Selection
- Wear shoes that fit comfortably
- Avoid tight or narrow shoes
- Use soft, seamless socks
5. Foot Protection Measures
- Protect your feet from excessive pressure and trauma
- Avoid standing for long periods
- Prevent your feet from getting wet
6. Smoking
- Quit smoking
- Improve blood circulation
- Speed up wound healing
7. Blood Sugar Control
- Monitor your blood sugar regularly
- Manage your diabetes
- Reduce the risk of infection
Diabetic Foot Ulcer Treatment Methods
1. Initial Phase: Wound Care
- Clean and disinfect the wound
- Apply sterile dressings
- Antibiotic treatment (if necessary)
2. Middle Stage: Advanced Treatment
- Deep wound care
- Debridement procedure
- Vascular treatment options
3. Advanced Stage: Surgical Intervention
- Surgical debridement
- Amputation if necessary
- Infection control
4. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
- Exercises to improve circulation
- Muscle strengthening programs
- Improving walking function
Frequently Asked Questions
How do diabetic foot ulcers heal?
Diabetic foot ulcers heal with regular care, appropriate treatment, and physical therapy processes. Blood sugar control and regular doctor follow-ups are essential.
What happens if diabetic foot ulcers are not treated?
Untreated diabetic foot ulcers can lead to infection, gangrene, and in severe cases, amputation. Therefore, early intervention is crucial.
Which doctor should you see for diabetic foot ulcers?
For diabetic foot ulcers, you should consult endocrinologists, orthopedic surgeons, or plastic surgeons. In necessary cases, physical therapists are also involved in the treatment process.
