Wound Care for Feet and Legs
Diabetic patients make up one of the largest groups of patients that have wounds and have a 25% chance of developing at least one diabetic foot ulcer in their lifetime! Other wounds such as venous stasis ulcers, or chronic burn or surgery wound Denton Podiatry in Denton, Texas offers expert podiatry services to residents of North Texas. Patients can easily book an appointment by either calling the office or scheduling online.
Why Dr. Barber?
Dr. Barber has extensive experience in wound care, including three years of surgical wound care and limb salvage in Brooklyn, NY. He has been trained by some of the nations most respected limb salvage and infectious disease experts.
Dr. Barber employs cutting edge technology to treat ulcers and wounds to give the best odds of recovery. His commitment to wound care is such that he has been named as a consultant for an up-and-coming wound care company.
Dr. Barber also uses topical oxygen for challenging ulcers - a rarity among clinics. Topical oxygen is superior than hyperbaric oxygen as it can be applied constantly, not just for a few hours. These innovative techniques have gained Dr. Barber recognition from colleagues and other providers.
Private Practice Vs. Wound Care Clinic
Patients often don't realize they have alternative options to a wound care center. Denton Podiatry offers the same quality of treatment for leg and foot issues, including debridement, home nursing orders, and specialized healing therapies. Dr. Barber provides advanced diagnostic tests, including portable x-ray and two vascular exam machines to help with treatment. Additionally, Denton Podiatry has a team of professional and caring staff who are dedicated to providing the best possible care for their patients.
If you’re searching for top-quality prevention and care for wounds and ulcers of the legs or foot, book a visit with Dr. Barber. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.
Diabetic Foot Ulcer Q & A
What is a diabetic foot ulcer?
Ulcers are breaks in the outer layer of skin, with deeper layers exposed. Diabetics are at risk for numerous health issues, and foot ulcers are a major concern. This is due to the damage diabetes causes to the body, such as nerve damage, poor circulation, and slow healing.
Diabetics may lack sensation in their feet, making it hard to notice minor wounds that can worsen without care. Around 6% of those with an ulcer require hospital treatment due to infection or other issues.
Risks Factors and Healing Problems
People with diabetes are more likely to develop foot ulcers, especially among certain ethnic groups and older men. Risk factors include using insulin, having diabetes related kidney, eye, or heart disease, being overweight, and using alcohol and tobacco. Ulcers may be caused by lack of feeling in the feet, poor circulation, foot deformities, irritation, or trauma. Symptoms may include drainage on socks, redness, swelling, and odor.
If a foot ulcer is spotted, get podiatric help quickly. This is vital to reduce risk of infection, amputation, and healthcare expenses, while improving function and quality of life. The main goal of treatment is rapid healing to lessen the chance of infection. Several elements must be taken into account for proper treatment of diabetic foot ulcers.
Maintaining blood sugar, keeping the ulcer clean and protected, cleansing the wound daily and wearing shoes are important to help prevent ulcer infection.
What can I do to prevent diabetic foot ulcers?
If you have diabetes, you need to develop and maintain a solid foot care routine. Foot care begins with daily inspections of the soles of your feet and the areas around and between your toes.
Additional steps you should take to reduce your risk of foot ulcers include:
⦿ Thorough daily foot washing
⦿ Keeping toenails trimmed without cutting too short
⦿ Having your blood flow evaluated
⦿ Changing socks frequently
⦿ Choosing shoes that fit well
⦿ Using high-quality moisturizer to keep skin hydrated
Perhaps the most important thing you can do to prevent diabetic foot ulcers is to come in for regular professional diabetic foot exams. Dr. Barber visits to evaluate your feet and recommend the right self-care for you.