DFUs Require Immediate Action: MD Podiatrist

According to Dan Michaels, DPM, “A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore or wound that occurs in about one quarter of patients with diabetes. They are commonly located on the bottom of the foot. These ulcers increase admission to the hospital and amputations, with about a quarter being admitted to the hospital and a quarter of them having an amputation. Diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic lower extremity amputations, and 85 percent of people who get an amputation had an ulcer first. Research has shown, however, that development of a foot ulcer is preventable, in most cases.”
 

“Once an ulcer is noticed, seek medical care immediately. Foot ulcers in patients with diabetes should be treated quickly to reduce the risk of infection and amputation, improve function and quality of life, and reduce healthcare costs. The primary goal in the treatment of foot ulcers is to obtain healing as soon as possible. The faster the healing, the less chance for an infection,” says Dr. Michaels.