Effective prevention of non-healing wound depends greatly on
the kind of ulcer you are most likely to get. Below are some
helpful prevention tips for diabetic foot ulcer and venous leg
ulcers.
Diabetic foot ulcer prevention
- Take appropriate actions to control your blood sugar
- Check your feet daily for cuts, blisters, red spots, or
swelling. Inform your doctor immediately if you see any changes or
injuries
- Have a podiatrist or other health care professional trim
your toenails straight across and file the edges
- Always wear shoes when walking – never go barefoot
- Wear thick, soft socks – avoid mended socks or
those with seams, which could rub and cause blisters or other skin
injuries
- Before putting on your shoes, feel inside for pebbles or
other small hard objects
- Don’t wear high heels, sandals, or shoes without
toes
- Don’t try to remove calluses, corns, or warts by
yourself –
see your doctor for assistance in these cases
Venous leg ulcer prevention
- Avoid long periods of sitting or standing whenever
possible
- Raise your legs above the level of your heart as often as
possible
- Wear compression stockings as instructed by your doctor
- Walk daily in sturdy, comfortable shoes that do not rub
or
slip on your feet – be sure to stop and rest if your feet or
legs begin to hurt
- Talk to your doctor before you begin any fitness program
- Maintain a balanced diet – reduce your weight as
recommended by your doctor
- Wash your legs and feet daily using a mild soap and warm
(not hot) water
- Inspect your legs and feet regularly for signs of
swelling, discoloration, dryness, bruises, or wounds –
inform
your doctor immediately if you see any changes
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