Wound Care

Diabetes can cause many complications, especially when it comes to your feet. At North Park Podiatry in San Diego, California, Trent Brookshier, DPM, and an experienced podiatric team provide wound care for diabetics with slow-healing foot and ankle wounds. They can help prevent severe infections and amputation. Call today or use the online tool to book an appointment to learn more about the extensive wound care services available.

Why is wound care critical?

Wound care focuses on assisting patients with cuts, sores, or ulcers on their feet and ankles. Healing wounds in these areas can be challenging for anyone, but it's especially problematic for people with diabetes.

Diabetic neuropathy, a condition that causes nerve damage and reduces the ability to detect wounds, affects about 50% of those with diabetes. Diabetes can also impair circulation, so wounds struggle to receive the necessary nutrients, oxygen, and growth factors essential for healing. 

Delayed healing or untreated wounds significantly increase the likelihood of infection and, in severe cases, gangrene.

Who benefits from wound care?

Wound care is particularly beneficial if you’re at a higher risk of slow-healing wounds. You fall into this category if you have:

• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Poor circulation
• Diabetic neuropathy
• A compromised immune system
• Vascular disease
• Dietary or nutritional deficiencies

Immobile people, such as those bed-bound or in a wheelchair, are also at increased risk of poor healing in lower extremity wounds.

What types of wounds require medical care?

Any wound struggling to heal can benefit from our specialized wound care at North Park Podiatry. Diabetic foot ulcers and other foot wounds can occur unexpectedly, even during daily activities. Simple issues like ill-fitting shoes, foreign debris in your shoe, or extended periods of walking can lead to wounds.

If you have poor circulation, even minor injuries like blisters or corns can deteriorate rapidly. Common concerns such as ingrown toenails can also escalate into serious problems.

If you have diabetes or another condition affecting circulation, inspect your feet daily and seek help at the first sign of any wounds.

What is involved in wound care?

The podiatry team at North Park Podiatry carefully assesses your wound, determines its cause, and considers your medical history. They may conduct a wound culture or biopsy to check for the presence of bacteria that would indicate infection.

You'll receive a personalized wound care plan that may include debridement and dressing. If an infection is present or likely, you'll be prescribed appropriate medications. In cases where wounds result from poorly fitting shoes or gait issues, your provider may recommend custom orthotics to prevent future injuries.

Get the wound care you need at North Park Podiatry. Call today or use this website to schedule your appointment online.