Foot Ulcers Treatment

In February of 2000, Malcolm Gladwell’s seminal work The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference was published. This book takes a look at the moments when ideas, trends, and social behaviors start to spread like wildfire. Essentially, Gladwell was interested in why some major events happen. What he found was that it usually only took seemingly minor factors to develop into something much larger.

The theme of “small things eventually turning into major events” can certainly be used to examine social behaviors and phenomena, but it also perfectly encapsulates what can happen when a foot ulcer develops!

There is a really big reason why ulcers cannot be ignored, but let’s start with defining what a foot ulcer actually is. Essentially, an ulcer is an open wound, sore, or breakdown of tissue. There are various reasons an ulcer can develop, including neuropathy (nerve damage). When peripheral nerves—the nerves responsible for reporting sensations to the brain—are damaged, it is possible to sustain an injury, like a cut or scrape, without knowing it. Since you are unaware that damage has been sustained, the minor issue will go untreated. In time, this can lead to big problems.

The most concerning potential issue with a skin ulcer is an infection that turns into gangrene (tissue death). In many cases the only way to prevent the spread of gangrene is with the use of amputation. Furthermore, 85 percent of diabetes-related amputations started with a foot ulcer.

Dangerous infection and possible amputation certainly highlight the importance of treating foot wounds at the earliest opportunity and, even better, preventing them in the first place. The good news is that we can help you by providing the treatment you need and providing tips to stay safe.

If you do live with diabetes, come in and see us so we can help you develop a diabetic foot care plan. Our own Dr. Jeanna Fascione works at the wound care center at Wooster Community Hospital and is specially trained in advanced wound care and diabetic limb salvage, and is well qualified to help you with your condition. 

Contact Foot & Ankle Center of Ohio for more information on skin ulcers and diabetic foot care by calling (330) 345-5500. If you’d like, you can request an appointment with our Wooster, OH podiatrist office online right now.