Wound Care For Chronic Wounds
Ohio Foot and Ankle Center
Podiatrists located in Canton, OH, Stow, OH & Rittman, OH
Nearly 1 in 4 people with diabetes develop a serious foot ulcer that often leads to lower limb amputation. Because wound care is critical as soon as a wound develops when you have diabetes, Aaron Chokan, DPM, FACFAS, FACCWS, at Ohio Foot and Ankle Center in Canton, Uniontown, Stow and Rittman, offers innovative wound care solutions. Whether you have a history of foot wounds or are trying to prevent them, contact the team today. You can conveniently schedule a wound care exam online or over the phone with the office nearest you.
Wound Care for Chronic Wounds Q&A
Why is wound care important?
Wound care is important to prevent the spread of infection and promote tissue healing. When you have diabetes, the normal healing process dramatically slows down.
This occurs because blood sugar spikes damage tissues, which leads to reduced blood circulation. The skin tissues in your lower legs and feet just don’t receive a steady oxygen and nutrient supply, which allows wounds to stay open and quickly become infected.
The purpose of wound care is to resolve and prevent these issues, so you don’t lose a limb. After all, diabetes-related foot ulcers are the leading cause of nontraumatic lower limb amputations.
When should I see a podiatrist if I have a wound?
Ohio Foot and Ankle Center is home to a team of wound care experts, including Dr. Chokan, a certified wound care specialist who has a 95% healed rate for all diabetic venous and arterial ulcers. You can feel confident that you’re in capable hands.
It’s important to come in to any clinic as soon as possible if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Blood or drainage in your socks
- Visible oozing, bleeding, or pus
- Open or slow-healing wound
- Redness or skin discoloration
- Numbness or burning
You should also schedule a diabetic foot wound evaluation at Ohio Foot and Ankle Center if you have a history of foot wounds. The foot and ankle experts not only treat you, but they also counsel you about preventive measures you can take to keep your feet healthy.
What can I expect during a wound care appointment?
The team at Ohio Foot and Ankle Center is dedicated to helping you prevent lower extremity amputations. They thoroughly examine you and go over your medical history during your appointment. To treat any current wounds, your podiatrist may need to:
- Flush and deep clean your wound
- Remove damaged or dead tissues
- Apply a topical antimicrobial solution
- Wrap your foot with sterile bandages
- Counsel you about caring for your wound at home
If you have a deeper foot wound or develop gangrene, a limb salvage procedure may be necessary. Limb salvage is a highly effective way to surgically remove infected and dead tissue and graft skin, so you heal more efficiently.
Don’t delay another day to book your wound care appointment at Ohio Foot and Ankle Center. Click on the online booking tool or call to schedule by phone with any clinic.