Limb Loss and Caring for Ulcers
Do you understand ulcers? Now is the time to get the background on this common condition that affects patients with diabetes. Unfortunately, one of the complications is an infection, which can lead to an amputation. April is Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, and we’re sharing the association between ulcers and amputations. Eighty-five percent of lower-limb amputations are preceded by foot ulcers. It’s time to take things more seriously, and we are here to help you act fast.
The doctors at PodiatryCare, PC and the Heel Pain Center regularly care for patients with diabetes. Seeing signs of infection is one of our greatest concerns.
Here is how we can help:
Teach the basics. We want you to understand that a foot ulcer is a wound that has not healed over time. It is often a non-healing wound that needs medical attention.
Encourage visits. During regular podiatry visits, we can inspect your feet. With our expert eyes, we can spot areas that may be of concern.
We can treat the infection. If you notice that your wound is becoming infected, we’re ready to help. We will provide the treatment that you need.
We provide orthotics. If you have a non-healing wound, pressure and friction only worsen the condition. Orthotics can help.
Here is how you can help:
Know how to spot the signs. We will share what we know but put your skills to the test during your daily foot inspections.
Don’t skip visits. If you have diabetes, regular visits are the key to successfully managing your condition. Diabetes impacts your body from head to toe.
Don’t delay treatment. Treating an infection is a time-sensitive matter. At the first signs of infection, give us a call. We take it seriously, and we want to see you as soon as possible.
Protect your feet. While caring for your wound or protecting vulnerable areas, explore your options. Custom orthotics are an example.
We encourage patients to add a podiatrist to their care team. It takes a village to help a patient manage a disease like diabetes. You are not alone, and you have support. Together, we can help you spot foot ulcers early, treat them, and reduce the risk of infection.
Our board-certified team of foot and ankle doctors at PodiatryCare, PC and the Heel Pain Center has experience with addressing foot needs, including bunions and hammertoes, pediatric foot care, custom orthotics, heel pain, diabetic foot care, and more. The team includes Dr. Charlotte George, Dr. Matthew Tschudy, Dr. Rebecca Wiesner, Dr. Kristen Winters, and Dr. Laura Vander Poel. We have two locations in Hartford County: 1379 Enfield Street, Enfield, CT, and 1350 Sullivan Avenue, South Windsor, CT. To schedule an appointment at our Enfield location, call (860) 741-3041; for an appointment at our South Windsor location, call (860) 644-6525.