Research that has been performed by several groups has led to the development of new techniques when it comes to diabetic foot ulcer treatment. Oxygen therapy, for example, helps to enhance cell division and fibrous tissue. Negative-pressure wound therapy removes liquid and necrotic tissue via a vacuum. In cases that may lead to amputation, vascular and microsurgery are usually options considered to be viable. Stem cell therapy also shows some promise despite being in its infancy stages. Three major components for wound therapy include oxygen, antibiotics and moisture. Ulcers are the result of breaches in the skin that do not heal. These breaches are usually caused by injuries, sensory loss, poor circulation and/or skin infections.
Your feet are an important part of your body. If you believe you are suffering from a systemic disease, you should seek out the care of a podiatrist like Dr. Zahid Ladha, F.A.C.F.A.S. of Foot First Podiatry. Dr. Ladha can diagnose your condition as well as provide you with treatment options that work for you.
Systemic Diseases of the Foot
Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable. Systemic diseases include: gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.
Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Some common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs, which relieves pain and inflammation and other drugs which lowers the acid levels in the body.
Diabetes mellitus- is an increase in the level of blood sugar in which the body cannot counteract with the insulin in the body. When the body doesn’t produce enough insulin this is a factor in Diabetes.
Diabetes of the Feet
â—Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.
â—Peripheral Vascular Disease- can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet.
If you have any questions, contact our office located in New Albany, IN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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