ULCERS AND INFECTIONS

Ulcers or openings in the skin are commonly seen in patients with diabetes but can also occur because of trauma to the foot or ankle. Ulcers are dangerous to the foot and ankle because the skin is the primary protector of underlying tissues. Once the skin is disrupted, the chances of infection increase significantly. Patients should be weary of treating these lesions on their own because, without appropriate care, loss of limb may occur.

There are a plethora of reasons why ulcers and infections may occur. The causes include diabetes, insect bites, blisters secondary to rubbing from shoe gear, or simple skin fungus. If you notice any open wounds on the foot or ankle that may or may not be accompanied by pain, it is important to be evaluated by a foot and ankle specialist as soon as possible. To find more information as to how to prevents foot and ankle ulcers secondary to diabetes please go to: www.diabetes.org.

Treatment Options

Possible treatments for these conditions include treating the wounds with different wound care products as well as using appropriate shoe gear and making sure that the patient is able to heal these ulcers appropriately. Other physicians/medical specialists may also have to be involved in the care of patients with ulcerations.

If you are concerned about openings in the skin, it is important to contact a foot and ankle specialist in order to address these medical concerns. Southwest Foot and Ankle Clinic physicians are able to help patients heal these wounds as expeditiously as possible.