Diabetes is one of the most pressing health challenges today, with millions of individuals struggling to manage its complications. Among these, Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFUs) pose a severe risk, leading to infections, hospitalizations, and even amputations if left untreated. Understanding the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures is crucial for patients and caregivers alike.
To provide a comprehensive, expert-backed guide, we spoke with Dr. Ashish Ohri (General Surgeon, Arogya Hospital, Jassian Road), Dr. Luv Luthra (Vascular Surgeon, Global Hospital, Firozpur Road), and Dr. Dinesh K. Sharma (Diabetologist, World Diabetes Center, Hambran Road) to shed light on the best practices in diabetic foot care and ulcer management.
DFUs result from poor circulation, nerve damage (neuropathy), and uncontrolled blood sugar levels. Even a small cut or blister can turn into a non-healing wound, leading to severe infections.
According to Dr. Ashish Ohri, "Diabetic foot ulcers often start small, but they progress rapidly if ignored. Many patients don’t feel pain due to nerve damage, which makes it even more critical to check your feet daily and seek timely medical attention."
🚨 Recognizing the symptoms of a diabetic foot ulcer early can save your limb. Look out for:
✅ Swelling, redness, or persistent pain
✅ Numbness or tingling sensation
✅ Open wounds or cuts that do not heal
✅ Pus, foul-smelling discharge, or blackened skin (a sign of dead tissue)
Dr. Dinesh K. Sharma, an experienced diabetologist, highlights: "Patients often focus only on their blood sugar levels and overlook foot care. However, regular foot inspections are just as important as taking your diabetes medication."
🔹 1. Maintain Optimal Blood Sugar Levels
High blood sugar weakens immunity and slows healing.
Diabetologists recommend keeping HbA1c below 7% to reduce the risk of ulcers.
🔹 2. Wound Care & Infection Control
- Clean ulcers daily with antiseptic solutions.
- Keep wounds moist but protected with specialized dressings.
- Seek antibiotic therapy for infections.
🔹 3. Offloading Pressure from the Affected Foot
Total Contact Casting (TCC) is considered the gold standard for ulcer healing.
Custom orthopedic footwear helps prevent further complications.
🔹 4. Vascular Health & Blood Flow Optimization
Poor circulation is a major cause of non-healing ulcers.
Dr. Luv Luthra, a leading vascular surgeon, explains: “Patients with PAD (Peripheral Arterial Disease) need vascular interventions like angioplasty or bypass surgery to restore blood flow. Without proper circulation, even the best wound care won’t work.”
🔹 5. Advanced Therapies for Faster Healing
- Growth Factors (PDGF Therapy) stimulate new tissue formation.
- Stem Cell Therapy helps regenerate damaged tissue.
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) increases oxygen supply to promote healing.
🛑 Avoid ulcers before they start! Follow these simple steps:
✔ Inspect your feet daily for cuts, blisters, or swelling.
✔ Wash feet with lukewarm water and apply moisturizer (avoid between toes).
✔ Wear comfortable, diabetic-friendly footwear to reduce pressure points.
✔ Trim toenails carefully to avoid ingrown nails.
✔ Never walk barefoot, even indoors.
Dr. Dinesh K. Sharma further emphasizes: "Small lifestyle modifications, like choosing the right footwear and checking your feet daily, can make all the difference in preventing diabetic foot complications."
Dr. Ashish Ohri, with years of expertise in surgical management of diabetic foot complications, urges: "Timely intervention is crucial. If you have diabetes, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Consult a specialist at the earliest sign of trouble."
For vascular-related complications, Dr. Luv Luthra adds: "Patients with diabetes often have poor circulation. If an ulcer isn’t healing, you may need a vascular check-up to restore proper blood flow."
🔹 Dr. Ashish Ohri: "Foot care should never be neglected. Early treatment can prevent serious complications and save lives."
🔹 Dr. Luv Luthra: "If you have diabetes and experience leg pain or slow-healing wounds, get your vascular health checked immediately."
🔹 Dr. Dinesh K. Sharma: "Diabetes management goes beyond sugar control. Preventive foot care should be a daily habit for every diabetic."
📢 Take action today—your feet deserve expert care!
For Consultations:
📍 Arogya Hospital, Jassian Road, near Baba Balaknath Mandir, Ludhiana
📍 Global Hospital, Firozpur Road, Ludhiana
📍 World Diabetes Center, Hambran Road, Ludhiana
📞 +91 98155 50159
✅ Stay informed. Stay healthy. Prioritize your foot health today!
