Ankle ulcers are open sores that develop when the skin around the ankle breaks down, but does not heal. They are often linked to poor blood flow, nerve damage, or high pressure in the veins. Venous stasis ulcers are the most common type of ankle ulcer and usually form just above the ankle joint. They occur when blood does not move back to the heart as it should, which causes swelling and tissue damage. Diabetes and arterial disease can also increase the risk of ankle ulcers. Other risk factors include varicose veins, previous blood clots, chronic swelling, inflammatory problems, and smoking, which reduces oxygen supply to the skin. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, warmth, drainage of fluid, and pain or itching. A podiatrist can examine the ankle ulcer, check circulation, provide wound care, and use compression to reduce swelling and improve healing. If you have an ankle ulcer, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment solutions.
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 Shawn Echard, DPM from Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner 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 contact our offices located in Greensburg and Somerset, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
