If you have diabetes or another chronic condition like kidney failure or high blood pressure, wound care of legs and feet is crucial to your health. Without regular preventive measures, you run the risk of infection or, in severe instances, amputation. At Optima Foot and Ankle, with the convenient location in Bend, Oregon, and Redmond, Oregon, expert podiatrists Laura Schweger, DPM, and Evan M. Ross, DPM, offer a wide range of services for wound care of legs and feet. To request your appointment today, call the office nearest you or book online.

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Why is wound care of legs and feet important?

Wound care of legs and feet is important because it takes early, preventive measures to stop the infection from spreading. If you have foot and leg ulcers or slow-healing wounds, you’re more likely to experience serious complications and/or the need for surgery. Investing in wound care is an easy and effective way to protect your health, well-being, and mobility.

What are some common conditions that require wound care of legs and feet?

A variety of medical conditions may require wound care of legs and feet. At Optimate Foot and Ankle, the team regularly provides wound care services to people with:

  • Poor circulation
  • Venous insufficiency
  • Diabetes
  • Kidney disease
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Heart disease
  • Vasculitis
  • Lupus
  • Scleroderma
  • Infections
  • History of smoking

You might also benefit from wound care of the legs and feet if you’re taking certain prescription medications, or you’ve been diagnosed with lymphedema, a condition that causes swelling in your legs and feet.

Are there different types of foot and leg wounds?

There are several types of foot and leg wounds, including:

Venous stasis ulcers

Venous ulcers usually develop on the inner part of your leg just above your ankles. They’re red in color and cause the surrounding skin to become purple and swollen. You’re at risk of venous stasis ulcers if you have a heart condition or a history of blood clots or varicose veins.

Neurotrophic ulcers

Neurotrophic or diabetic ulcers result from unmanaged diabetes. If your blood sugar levels are too high for an extended period of time, it can cause nerve damage and changes to your sweat glands. You’re also at an increased risk of injury or infection. Neurotrophic ulcers are usually red, brown, or black in color.

Arterial ulcers

Arterial ulcers occur as a result of poor circulation. They’re usually yellow, brown, or grey in color and develop on the heels of your feet. Arterial ulcers are especially painful and may interfere with your ability to walk or stand for long periods.

How are foot and leg wounds treated?

Treatment for foot and leg wounds depends on their type and severity. If you have diabetes or another chronic condition that increases your risk, the team at Optima Foot and Ankle recommends getting an annual foot exam at least once a year. This reduces the risk of severe complications like infection, gangrene, and amputation.

Following an exam and review of your medical history, your doctor can provide you with tips and insights that improve your health and reduce your risk for surgery or more complex interventions.

To request your wound care appointment at Optima Foot and Ankle today, call the office nearest you or book online.