Patient/caregiver were instructed on the complications that could arise from poorly managed diabetic foot ulcers as follows:
- Stiffness & contractures of the toes and compromised foot arches in individuals with active or history of diabetic foot ulcers can alter the gait pattern, impair balance during ambulation, and increase dependence on assistive device, thus contributing towards increased risk for falls and accidents.
- The neuropathy could affect the sweat glands of the feet, resulting in reduced sweat production. Poor sweating in the feet can lead to dry and cracked skin, predisposing the individual to risk for skin breakdown and increased risk for skin infections.
- Also, as these individuals could be walking and moving around without realizing the wounds on the feet, these wound sites are increasingly exposed to risk for further friction & pressure and risk for infections. This can lead to worsening of the wounds due to complications, such as, bacterial infection and dead tissue formation, before the wounds are even realized.
- Poorly managed diabetics could also present with compromised blood circulation in the distal lower extremities, which can result in diminished blood supply to the ulcer site. Rich blood supply delivering fair amounts of oxygen and nutrients is needed for healing of the ulcer site. Continued compromised blood supply to the feet in poorly managed diabetics also leads to increased risk for delayed healing at the ulcer site, development of secondary bacterial infections, and dead tissue formation.
