All You Need To Know About Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Diabetic foot disease encompasses various conditions, primarily characterised by neuropathy and reduced blood flow, often leading to foot ulcers.

Diabetic foot disease encompasses various conditions, primarily characterised by neuropathy and reduced blood flow, often leading to foot ulcers. According to Dr. Girish Parmar, who is a Senior Consultant of Diabetology and Endocrinology at Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai, "As the condition progresses, stages emerge: neuropathy manifests as loss of sensation, making injuries and ulcers likely; reduced blood flow hampers wound healing, leading to ulcers that can worsen without proper care."

Symptoms Of Diabetic Foot Disease:

Dr. Abhijit Bhograj, who is a Consultant – Endocrinologist, Diabetes and Thyroid, at Manipal Hospital, Hebbal, Bangalore, "Early symptoms include tingling, numbness, or pain in the feet. Patients may also experience skin changes, such as dryness and cracking, and may not notice minor cuts or sores that can develop into ulcers due to reduced sensation."

Stage Of Diabetic Foot Ulcers:

Dr. G Sandeep Reddy, who is a Senior Endocrinologist at Kamineni Hospitals, L.B. Nagar, Hyderabad said, "The progression of diabetic foot disease follows distinct stages. The first stage involves the formation of calluses or corns due to increased pressure on specific areas of the feet. Without proper care, these calluses can develop into open sores or foot ulcers in the second stage. These ulcers can be painful and prone to infection, and if left untreated, they can progress to deeper tissues and even bones in the third and most severe stage, leading to potential amputation."

Pain Management And Diabetic Neuropathy:

Dr. N Bhavani, who is a Consultant Diabetologist and Senior Endocrinologist, at Kamineni Hospitals, L.B. Nagar, Hyderabad said, "Effective pain management is crucial for individuals suffering from diabetic neuropathy, which is a common complication of diabetes. Neuropathic pain often presents as a burning, shooting, or tingling sensation in the feet and can significantly impact a person's quality of life. To manage this pain, medications like anticonvulsants (gabapentin) and antidepressants (amitriptyline) are commonly prescribed. These drugs can help modulate the abnormal nerve signaling responsible for the pain."

"In addition to medication, physical therapy and exercises designed to improve circulation and reduce nerve-related discomfort can be beneficial. Keeping blood sugar levels well-controlled through diet and medication is also vital in slowing down the progression of neuropathy and mitigating pain. Patients should engage in open and regular communication with their healthcare providers to ensure a tailored and effective approach to pain management and the overall management of diabetic foot disease," added Dr. Bhavani.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]