Wound Care

People with diabetes need special care for wounds to prevent complications like infection and amputation. At Metroplex Foot and Ankle, LLP, with offices in Richardson, Garland, and Dallas, Texas, the experienced podiatry team provides advanced technologies and compassionate care for wounds. Call today or use the online tool to benefit from the practice’s expert wound care.

What is wound care?

Wound care helps people who have any type of cut, sore, or ulcer on the foot and ankle. 

Wounds in your feet or legs are hard to heal. This is especially true for people with diabetes. A condition called neuropathy, which causes nerve damage that keeps you from feeling a wound, affects 50% of people with diabetes. Other medical conditions can also interfere with blood circulation to the lower extremities.

Reduced circulation means wounds don’t get the nutrients, oxygen, and growth factors necessary for healing. When wounds are slow to heal or go unattended, it greatly increases your risk of infection and gangrene. 

The prompt and effective wound care offered by the team at Metroplex Foot and Ankle, LLP helps you avoid complications and keep your feet healthy.

Who is most in need of wound care?

Patients with a higher risk for slow-healing wounds benefit the most from wound care. You fall into this category if you have: 

• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Poor circulation
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Compromised immunity
• Vascular disease
• Compromised immune system
• Dietary or nutritional deficiencies

If you’re bed-bound or in a wheelchair, you’re also at greater risk of lower extremity wounds that have trouble healing. 

What types of injuries require wound care?

Any type of wound with trouble healing can benefit from wound care offered at Metroplex Foot and Ankle, LLP. Diabetic foot ulcers and foot wounds can happen anytime, even during daily activities. You might even develop wounds from ill-fitting shoes, debris lodged in your shoe, or walking for long periods. 

For people with poor circulation, minor injuries, like a blister or corn, can worsen quickly. Ingrown toenails are another common affliction that can escalate into a serious injury. 

If you have diabetes or another circulation problem, check your feet daily and get help for any wounds at their first appearance. 

How does wound care work?

Your podiatrist examines your wound, asks about its origins, and considers your medical history. They may also take a wound culture or a biopsy to see if there is any bacteria present that indicates infection.

You’ll get a customized wound care plan that includes debridement and dressing. If you have the signs of an infection or are at risk of one, you’ll be prescribed medication. When wounds are caused by poorly fitting shoes or your stride, your podiatrist may recommend custom orthotics to prevent injury in the future. 

Call Metroplex Foot and Ankle, LLP to get the expert wound care you need. You can also use this website to book an appointment.