How to Control Diabetic Ulcers

A diabetic ulcer is an open sore or wound. They occur most often on the bottom of the feet or on the legs, but can be found anywhere on the body.
Poor circulation and nerve damage are the primary culprits. These complications of diabetes are caused by poor glucose control. Other factors include foot deformities (i.e. bunion or hammer toe) and trauma such as pressure or friction from ill-fitting shoes. According to the American Diabetic Association, 15 percent of diabetics will experience a diabetic ulcer sometime during their life.

Instructions

Compliance is Key to Successful Healing

• 1

  Perform daily foot care and assess for any indication of problems. Because neuropathy can diminish any feeling of pain, it is important to visually inspect the feet. After bathing, dry the feet completely. This affords an opportunity to inspect the feet routinely. Look for any redness, blistering, bruising, scratches or open wounds. If you can't see an area, use a mirror or ask someone to help you.

• 2

  Treat the diabetic ulcer as early as possible to achieve the best outcomes. If left untreated even for a short time, it may be impossible to prevent eventual amputation. Take any prescribed antibiotics. Carefully cleanse and routinely change the dressing on the ulcer. Keep the wound covered and provide the correct amount of moisture.

• 3

  Keep pressure off of the ulcer. This may involve using specialized foot gear, crutches, a wheelchair or castings to reduce or eliminate the irritating cause and protect the ulcer while healing.

• 4

  Have the ulcer debrided. Debridement (removal) of dead tissue should be done as needed by a podiatrist, wound certified nurse or other specially trained health care provider. Dead tissue deters the growth of new tissue and healing. Debridement may be accomplished with chemicals or specific bandage materials, or with the use of small instruments.

• 5

  Maintain fluid intake and good nutrition. Protein and vitamin C are essential components in the production of new healthy tissue.
  Tightly control your blood sugar. It is key to infection control and is vital to the synthesis of new cells for tissue replacement. Infection can cause blood sugars to run high and necessitate the adjustment of medications. Regular blood glucose monitoring will tell whether medication changes are effective or further adjustment is needed.

• 6

  Have your wound care program designed to best heal your specific ulcer. This program will be based on factors such as size, the depth, the amount and type of drainage, the location, the presence or absence of infection, and history of previous diabetic ulcers. Calcium alginate products, hydrocolloid, silver impregnated products, and medications to promote new tissue growth such as Regranex are among the most effective treatments. Leptospernum or manuka honey from New Zealand is being researched for its potential to heal diabetic ulcers quickly.