Diabetic Ulcer

Diabetic Ulcer Treatment

Diabetic ulcers can be slow to heal and have the potential to lead to severe complications if not properly managed. At BH Wound Care, we have a team of highly skilled, experienced wound care specialists who can help you understand the underlying causes and risk factors of diabetic ulcers. Our team will design a personalized treatment plan that relieves pain and discomfort, reduces the risk of complications, and promotes healing and overall wellness using state-of-the-art wound care innovation. We offer diabetic ulcer treatment in Portland, OR; Los Angeles, CA; Vancouver, WA; and Nashville, TN. 

What Are Diabetic Ulcers?

Diabetic ulcers are open sores that can form on the feet, hands, legs, or stomach. They are often a complication of unmanaged diabetes, and without proper foot ulcer care for diabetics, ulcers can lead to infection, gangrene, amputation, sepsis, and even death. If you notice signs or symptoms of a diabetic ulcer, it’s important that you visit your physician or a wound care specialist as soon as possible for ulcer treatment and neuropathy wound management.

What Causes Diabetic Ulcers?

There are a number of diabetes complications and risk factors that can cause a diabetic ulcer to form. The most common causes of diabetic ulcers are:

• Poor circulation
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Obesity
• High blood sugar
• Unmanaged diabetes
• Poor diet or nutrition
• Nerve damage caused by high blood sugar
• Untreated cut, scrape, blister, or ingrown toenail
• Changes in foot shape
• Smoking
• Hypertension
• Chronic inflammation
• Changes in white blood cell counts

Can You Treat Diabetic Ulcers at Home?

While you can provide some home care for diabetic ulcers, it’s best to consult a physician or wound care specialist right away. They can provide comprehensive initial treatment, help you manage your diet and lifestyle, and reduce your risk of complications or chronic ulcers. The best ways to treat or manage diabetic ulcers are:

• Consult a Healthcare Professional – If you notice an open sore or wound on your foot, seek medical attention immediately. A healthcare professional experienced in diabetic wound care can assess the wound’s severity and devise an appropriate treatment plan.
• Keep the Wound Clean – Gently wash the wound with mild soap and water daily. Avoid harsh antiseptics, as they may damage healthy tissues. Pat the area dry with a clean towel.
• Apply Antibiotic Ointment – Under the guidance of a healthcare professional, apply an antibiotic ointment to reduce the risk of infection.
• Offload Pressure – Minimize pressure on the ulcer by avoiding weight-bearing activities on the affected foot. Using crutches, walkers, or specialized footwear can help.
• Moist Wound Healing – Keep the ulcer covered with a moist dressing to create an optimal environment for healing. This can speed up the healing process and reduce scarring.
• Manage Blood Glucose Levels – Keep your blood sugar levels under control through diet, exercise, and medication. Controlled blood sugar aids in wound healing.
• Avoid Self-treatment – Do not attempt to remove dead tissue or calluses on your own, as this can worsen the wound. Leave debridement to a healthcare professional.
• Regular Follow-up – Adhere to your healthcare provider’s instructions and attend scheduled follow-up appointments for wound assessment and management.
• Lifestyle Changes – Quit smoking, as it negatively impacts circulation and healing. Wear comfortable, well-fitted shoes, and inspect your feet daily for any signs of injury.

Can You Prevent Diabetic Ulcers?

Preventing diabetic ulcers is essential in diabetic foot care. Our wound care specialists can offer education and instruction on managing existing diabetic ulcers and preventing new diabetic ulcers:

• Daily Foot Inspections – Check your feet daily for any cuts, blisters, or redness. Promptly address any issues.
• Proper Footwear – Wear comfortable shoes that fit well and provide adequate support. Avoid going barefoot, especially outside.
• Regular Foot Examinations – Have a foot examination by a healthcare professional at least annually or more frequently if you have existing foot issues.
• Foot Hygiene – Keep your feet clean and moisturized, but avoid applying lotion between the toes, as it can create a moist environment conducive to fungal infections.
• Control Diabetes – Monitor and manage your blood glucose levels to reduce the risk of complications, including diabetic ulcers.

Our Diabetic Ulcer Treatment Services

At BH Wound Care, we have a team of highly skilled wound care specialists with extensive experience and training in managing complications from diabetes. We can perform a thorough examination, conduct testing, and assess the underlying cause of your diabetic ulcer. We will design a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your ulcer and helps you manage your diabetes and prevent future ulcers through diet and nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes. We use state-of-the-art technology to promote wound healing and recovery, and our holistic treatment options focus on improving overall health and wellness to improve your quality of life. Our diabetic ulcer treatment services include:

• Wound assessment and diagnosis
• Evaluation of your overall health and lifestyle
• Wound cleaning and debridement
• Pain management
• Antibiotic administration to prevent diabetic foot infections
• Custom orthotics for foot health
• Ongoing wound care and dressings
• Education and training on diet and lifestyle changes and wound care and prevention

Schedule a Consultation for Diabetic Ulcer Treatment

Diabetic ulcer wounds require proper medical care and attention to prevent complications that could delay healing. If you notice symptoms of a diabetic ulcer or diabetic foot infection, treatment from a professional wound care specialist is recommended. At BH Wound Care, our specialists will work quickly to address your symptoms and their underlying causes and help you develop a comprehensive plan to address the wound and promote future health and wellness. Seeking early medical attention and adhering to professional advice is crucial in managing diabetic ulcers and protecting your overall foot health. Call us now or reach out to us online to schedule a consultation for diabetic ulcer and diabetic foot infection treatment in Portland, OR; Los Angeles, CA; Vancouver, WA; or Nashville, TN.