Wound Care in Owensboro, KY
Foot injuries are common, and for the most part, they can be simply signs that you need to adjust your walking or running habits, or your footwear. But if you suffer from diabetes these injuries can quickly become a serious concern. Learn more about how to properly care for your wounds by reaching out to your local foot experts at Health Quest Medical Care in Owensboro, KY.
Foot Ulcer
These often start as small injuries but can become difficult-to-treat wounds and eventually foot ulcers. They can cause an infection that, without treatment, rapidly spreads and could in time result in amputation to stop it from affecting the rest of your body.
About one-quarter of people who are affected by diabetes develop wounds or foot ulcers.
Diabetes not only makes you more prone to foot conditions and disorders, but because the condition can also lead to nerve damage it can also be very difficult to even detect these injuries on your own.
Types of Wounds
Pressure wounds are some of the most common types of injuries that can lead to diabetic foot ulcers. They are often caused by pressure and friction, typically as a result of improperly fitting footwear.
Traumatic wounds are usually caused by sudden trauma or injury.
Venous stasis ulcers can develop because normal vein function has been affected, either by abnormal or damaged veins. The condition can be hereditary and influenced by age, weight, and other factors.
Non-healing post-op wounds are those that can occur when a surgical incision does not heal as expected, and it's often caused by infection.
Caring for wounds
Caring for wounds begins at home with daily examinations of your feet, which can be done with mirrors and with the help of a loved one or caretaker. Look out for blisters and scrapes and care for them, but any sign of infection should be referred quickly to your podiatrist, who can also guide you as to what to look for.
Your doctor will clean the wound, remove any dead tissue, and apply a clean bandage. They will also treat any present infection, possibly with medication, if necessary, and tell you what you can do to help your wounds heal as soon as possible. If you need help caring for your wounds and preventing infection you can schedule a visit with your local Owensboro, KY, experts of Health Quest Medical Care by dialing (270) 683-3073.