Elastic Bandages and the Feet

Sometimes when we develop a cut or wound on the human body, it can be beneficial to cover up the wound with a bandage to protect the skin and help it heal. The feet are no different, and sometimes they might benefit from the use of a bandage when wounds develop. To help keep bandages held in the proper place, the use of an elastic bandage on top may be useful. These bandages give extra support to an area of the foot that is injured. Elastic bandages are usually applied to the feet by wrapping or crossing the bandage across the foot, leaving the heel exposed. It can be helpful to refrain from wrapping the elastic bandage too tightly around the foot which may help to prevent cutting off blood circulation to the feet. Elastic bandages are not for everyone. However, if you are interested in elastic bandages and believe they may help you keep your bandages in place, please contact a podiatrist for guidance today.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.