Currently, around 6.7 million Americans are living with a chronic foot or leg wound, and more than two million of them are suffering from a diabetic foot ulcer. Chronic foot and leg wounds are often caused by underlying conditions, such as diabetes and vascular disease. Some of the primary risk factors for wounds of the feet include neuropathy, deformity of the foot, a history of foot ulceration, absent or diminished pulses or of prior lower extremity amputation.
The Christian Hospital Wound Care & Hyperbarics Center specializes in treating chronic wounds and non-responsive conditions. The center is managed by Healogics.
There are preventative measures everyone can do to improve foot health. This includes checking feet for red spots, cuts, swelling, blisters, sores or other injuries daily; washing your feet every day and drying them with care, especially between the toes; trimming the toenails as needed after feet have been washed and dried; wearing properly fitting shoes that do not rub or pinch the feet; always wearing socks or stockings with shoes; and never walking barefoot or while wearing only socks.
Physical activity can help increase circulation in your feet. Consult your healthcare team to see which physical activity is right for you. Take off your socks at your next check-up, and alert your doctor to any problems with your feet.
For more information on the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers or chronic or infected wounds, contact Christian Hospital Wound Care & Hyperbarics Center, 11125 Dunn Road, Suite 211, St. Louis, Missouri or call (314) 653-4076.
