Serious foot infections in diabetic individuals pose significant health risks and often lead to amputations and even death. These infections are a concerning complication of diabetes and require careful attention. They can be caused by various factors, including poor blood sugar control, reduced blood flow, and nerve damage in the feet. In diabetic foot infections, bacteria can enter through minor cuts or sores, leading to cellulitis, abscesses, or even gangrene. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial to prevent severe complications. Common symptoms include redness, warmth, swelling, and pain in the affected foot. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, wound care, and in some cases, surgical intervention to remove infected tissue and improve blood flow. Diabetic patients must take special precautions to prevent foot infections, such as daily foot inspections, proper hygiene, wearing well-fitting shoes, and maintaining good blood sugar control. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist to monitor your foot health, and receive timely intervention to prevent serious infections.

Diabetic Limb Salvage

Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with Kenneth Donovan, DPM from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?

Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.