Foor Ulcers
Foot ulcers are an open sore on the foot, which usually resulted from increased pressure, decreased sensation and decreased circulation. Research shows that more than 20% foot ulcers are due to ill-fitting shoes. The elderly population are at higher risk of developing foot ulcers because of multiple medical conditions, complex medication regimens and limited mobility. Also, people with diabetes have a significantly high risk of developing foot ulcers due to damaged blood vessels and nerves. In saying this, most foot ulcers can be prevented.
Symptoms include:
- Swelling, redness or heat
- Cut, blister or pus
- Unpleasant smell
Risk Factors:
- Poor shoes
- Callous or corns
- Foot deformities (eg. claw toes)
- Decreased sensation and circulation
Assessment – The podiatrists at toe-tal will diagnose the condition through a physical examination and go through all the necessary treatments listed below to help get you on the right path.
Treatment: –
- Debridement of callous and corns from a health professional (Podiatrist at toe-tal podiatry can deride dead skin safely)
- Apply and change dressing as required, and keep the area clean
- Offload pressure from the area to promote healing (Podiatrist at toe-tal podiatry can apply suitable offload padding according to ulcer location)
- Footwear advice/modification to redistribute pressure of heel – (talk to the podiatrist at toe-tal about what footwear suits your foot best)
- If ulcer is infected, require antibiotic treatment
Prevention:
- Check feet daily, especially all pressure points (Podiatrist at toe-tal podiatry can help remove source of pressure)
- Avoid barefoot and wear properly fitting sock and shoes
- Ensure protection of skin – clean feet, dry between toes thoroughly, use moisturizer on the feet to prevent hard skin and/or cracks
Contact Us.
Please contact the appropriate location for bookings.
Salisbury Medical Centre
PH: 3277 1621 - Fax: 3277 2887
ACE Sports Medicine – Hibiscus Sports Complex
PH: 3349 5733 - Fax: 3349 5122
Acacia Ridge Day And Night Chemmart Pharmacy
PH: 3277 4220 - Fax: 3255 5644
Brisbane Medical Specialists – Tarragindi
PH: 3184 0400 - Fax: 3892 7094
Morningside General Practice Clinics – Morningside Plaza
PH: 3399 4685 - Fax: 3395 7377
Any other enquiries please email info@toetalpodiatry.com.au or call 0422 389 652