A symptom of poorly managed diabetes, diabetic foot affects a quarter of Quebec’s diabetic patients. Caused by immune deficiency, diabetic foot exposes patients to serious infections when injuries occur. Early treatment and identification of wounds are crucial to avoid irreversible damage.
What triggers the appearance of injuries on a diabetic foot?
Ulcers result from inadequately managed diabetes, which damages the foot’s nerve endings over time. This neuropathy prevents patients from detecting discomfort, delaying injury identification. Early intervention is vital to prevent bacterial or fungal infections.
Signs of a minor foot injury
Complications from diabetic foot injuries can range from ulceration to amputation. Recognizing early signs is essential. Annual professional foot examinations are recommended, alongside daily self-inspections.
- Wounds or ulcers slow to heal
- Cuts
- Blisters
- Plantar warts
- Bruises
- Unusual swelling
- Redness or skin color changes
Ingrown toenails or many calluses should prompt consultation with a foot healthcare specialist or podiatry clinic for proper care.
When should you consult a podiatrist?
Diabetic patients must monitor their lower limbs closely. Swelling, redness, pain, or lesions require attention. Peripheral neuropathy complicates injury evaluation, but signs such as tingling, swelling, dryness, calluses, cracks, and open wounds necessitate seeing a foot care professional.
- Tingling or plantar stiffness
- Swelling or foot appearance changes
- Plantar dryness
- Calluses or cracks
- Open wounds or purulent blisters
A podiatrist not only treats injuries promptly but can also offer complementary treatments like custom-made foot orthotics.
First aid to be administered
When you first notice a concerning lesion, immediately contact a podiatrist or medical clinic. Meanwhile, clean the wound with a simple saline solution by mixing one cup of water with 1/2 tsp of salt, boiling for 1 minute, and letting it cool. The solution can be refrigerated for 24 hours.
Cover the area with a dry dressing, avoiding tight bandaging or adhesives directly on the skin. Inspect the wound daily for signs of infection such as swelling, redness, or discharge, and avoid putting weight on the injury.
If healing does not progress, seek treatment by a podiatrist.
PiedRéseau, your ally in the prevention and treatment of diabetic foot injuries
PiedRéseau represents over 40 podiatric clinics across Quebec, offering expertise from dermatological care to custom orthotics. Diabetic patients noticing unusual foot lesions should consult a podiatrist for professional diagnosis and tailored treatment.