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Ulcer & Wound Care Information Pack

Complete guide to understanding, preventing, and treating foot ulcers and wounds. Essential information for diabetic patients and those at risk of wound complications.

Understanding Foot Ulcers

Foot ulcers are open sores or wounds that commonly occur on the bottom of the foot. They can be particularly dangerous for people with diabetes, as they may not heal properly and can lead to serious complications including infection and amputation.

Early recognition and proper treatment are crucial for preventing complications. This information pack provides essential knowledge about ulcer prevention, care, and when to seek professional help.

Concerned About Foot Ulcers?

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Types of Foot Ulcers

Diabetic Foot Ulcers

  • Most common type affecting diabetic patients
  • Often result from neuropathy and poor circulation
  • Can develop from minor trauma or pressure points
  • High risk of infection and slow healing

Pressure Ulcers

  • Caused by prolonged pressure on bony areas
  • Common in bedridden or wheelchair-bound individuals
  • Also called bedsores or pressure sores
  • Stages range from skin discoloration to deep wounds

Risk Factors

Diabetes

Primary risk factor due to neuropathy and poor circulation

Poor Circulation

Peripheral artery disease reduces blood flow to feet

Neuropathy

Nerve damage reduces sensation and increases injury risk

At Risk for Foot Ulcers?

Don't wait - early intervention prevents complications

Warning Signs & Symptoms

When to Seek Immediate Care

Early Warning Signs

  • • Redness or warmth around wound
  • • Increased pain or swelling
  • • Pus or unusual drainage
  • • Foul odor from wound
  • • Fever or chills

Advanced Signs

  • • Black or dead tissue (gangrene)
  • • Spreading redness (cellulitis)
  • • Bone involvement (osteomyelitis)
  • • Systemic infection signs
  • • Uncontrolled bleeding

Notice Any Warning Signs?

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Prevention Strategies

Daily Foot Care

Inspection

Check feet daily for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling. Use a mirror for hard-to-see areas.

Hygiene

Wash feet daily with mild soap and warm water. Dry thoroughly, especially between toes.

Moisturizing

Apply lotion to prevent dry, cracked skin. Avoid putting lotion between toes.

Nail Care

Trim nails straight across. See a podiatrist for thick or ingrown nails.

Protective Measures

Footwear

  • • Wear properly fitted shoes
  • • Break in new shoes gradually
  • • Check shoes for foreign objects
  • • Use diabetic socks

Lifestyle

  • • Control blood sugar levels
  • • Don't walk barefoot
  • • Quit smoking
  • • Regular exercise (as approved)

Treatment Approaches

Wound Care Principles

1

Clean

Gently clean wound with saline solution

2

Protect

Apply appropriate dressing to maintain moist environment

3

Monitor

Regular assessment for signs of infection or healing

Advanced Treatments

  • Debridement: Professional removal of dead tissue to promote healing
  • Negative Pressure Therapy: Vacuum-assisted wound closure
  • Bioengineered Skin Substitutes: Artificial skin grafts for large wounds
  • Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Oxygen chamber treatment for difficult wounds

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Professional Wound Care is Essential

Foot ulcers require specialized care. Our experienced podiatrists provide comprehensive wound care treatment using the latest techniques and technologies.