Dr. Thomas L. Hoffman, a Clearfield podiatrist and provider at Clearfield Hospital’s Wound Clinic, right, examines Kathryn Roberts’ foot.
Because Ms. Roberts has diabetes, Dr. Hoffman wanted to monitor how her foot was healing after surgery to correct a heel spur. Also shown is Brenda English, registered nurse at the wound clinic.
Click here to learn more about the Wound Clinic at Clearfield Hospital.
These sores can take a long time to heal, sometimes become infected, cause disability and may ultimately lead to amputation.
“Because people with diabetes are more prone to foot problems, it’s very important for them to take good care of their feet. Foot sores are preventable,” stated Dr. Thomas L. Hoffman, a Clearfield podiatrist and provider at Clearfield Hospital’s Wound Clinic.
He said people with diabetes often have reduced sensation in their feet, so they don’t always feel pain.
“When people feel discomfort when walking, they change the way they walk to avoid extra pressure on the foot. When a person can’t feel discomfort, in the case of those with diabetes, they walk in the same fashion day after day. Eventually, the skin breaks down and a sore develops,” Dr. Hoffman explained.
Some people delay medical treatment because the sores aren’t painful or bothersome. There are also those who believe that because they have diabetes, the sores won’t heal anyway.
“While it’s true people with diabetes may have a more difficult time healing due to circulatory problems, with appropriate medical care their wounds can be healed. Not seeking care for a wound can result in dire consequences, including infection and even amputation,” Dr. Hoffman said.
Wound Clinic
Clearfield Hospital’s Wound Clinic is dedicated to healing patients with difficult wounds, including foot sores. The clinic is staffed with specially trained physicians and nurses, and is led by general surgeons and podiatrists.
The team thoroughly assesses each patient's wound, including any underlying causes, and develops an individualized treatment program using the latest wound healing techniques and technologies.
While the Wound Clinic provides comprehensive treatment for wounds, Dr. Hoffman’s goal is to help people prevent foot sores from developing.
The most important step is for people with diabetes to check their feet every day.
“Contact your doctor if you have breaks in the skin or if you have an ingrown nail. Also, tell your health care provider if your foot changes color, shape or just feels different,” Dr. Hoffman said.
Foot Care Tips
Dr. Hoffman shared these other foot care tips provided by the ADA:
- Take care of your diabetes. Work with your health care team to keep your blood glucose in your target range. See your family doctor and podiatrist for regular checkups.
- Be more active. Plan your physical activity program with your health team.
- Ask your doctor about Medicare coverage for special shoes.
- Wash your feet every day. Dry them carefully, especially between the toes.
- Keep your skin soft and smooth. Rub a thin coat of skin lotion over the tops and bottoms of your feet, but not between your toes.
- Trim your toenails when needed. Trim them straight across and file the edges with an emery board or nail file.
- Wear shoes and socks at all times. Never walk barefoot. Wear comfortable shoes that fit well and protect your feet. Check inside your shoes before wearing them. Make sure the lining is smooth and there are no objects inside.
- Protect your feet from hot and cold. Wear shoes at the beach or on hot pavement. Don't put your feet into hot water. Test water before putting your feet in it just as you would before bathing a baby. Never use hot water bottles, heating pads or electric blankets. You can burn your feet without realizing it.
- Keep the blood flowing to your feet. Put your feet up when sitting. Wiggle your toes and move your ankles up and down for 5 minutes, two or three times a day. Don't cross your legs for long periods of time. Don't smoke.
- Get started now. Begin taking good care of your feet today.
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