How to Prevent Dangerous Diabetic Foot Ulcers

The problem with diabetic nerve damage in your feet is even a relatively minor injury can go undetected and quickly worsen into a diabetic foot ulcer that needs aggressive treatment to avoid the possibility of amputation.

You can prevent diabetic foot ulcers from developing with the following:

●     Perform daily foot inspections—The nerve damage caused by diabetes often makes it difficult to know when you have a cut or injured your foot since you can no longer feel any pain or discomfort from the wound. That is why daily foot inspections are essential for patients who have diabetes. Look for cracked or bleeding skin that can lead to infections and pay attention to any ingrown toenails that can allow bacteria and fungi to enter. Be sure to check for infected cracks between your toes and check the bottoms of your feet using a mirror if necessary to get a good look.

●     Wear the proper shoes with orthotic inserts and braces—Wear comfortable and supportive shoes specially made for patients with diabetes. These shoes have a wider toe box and deeper heel cup to accommodate custom orthotic inserts and balance braces. Orthotics direct pressure away from wounds so they can heal.

If you have a cut on your foot that isn’t healing correctly, contact your foot doctor for the proper care. James C. Ricketti, DPM of Hamilton Square, NJ (in Mercer County), is a board-certified podiatrist providing state of the art diagnostic and treatment options for all types of foot and ankle injuries, diseases, and deformities. From hammertoes and bunions to diabetic foot problems and sports injuries, you can rest assured that Dr. Ricketti and his staff will get you back on your feet as fast as possible. Please contact our office with any questions or to schedule an appointment. Call 609-587-1674.