Are you going to the podiatrist for a wound on your foot? You may be wondering exactly what treatment entails when you have an injury on this sensitive area of your body. According to the Illinois Podiatric Medical Association, on average, a healthy person should aim to take 8,000 to 10,000 steps a day; by age 70, the average person will have walked the equivalent of four times around the globe. Understanding your podiatrist's process for wound treatment can help you feel prepared and know what to expect at your appointment.

Your Podiatrist Will Examine the Wound

The first thing your podiatrist will do is thoroughly examine the wound. They will look at the size, depth, and location of the injury. The doctor will also check for signs of infection like redness, swelling, oozing, odor, and warmth around the wound. Don't be surprised if they gently probe the wound with a sterile instrument. This hands-on evaluation provides important information about the severity of the injury and the best wound treatment approach.

Cleaning and Debriding the Wound

After examining the wound, your podiatrist will get to work cleaning and debriding it. This means removing any dirt, debris, or dead skin cells from the injured area. They may rinse the wound with a saline solution or use a debriding agent to break down and brush away dead tissue. Proper cleaning and debridement helps prevent infection and allows the wound to start healing. It may feel a little uncomfortable, but it's important to be as thorough as possible.

Applying Medications and Dressings

Once the wound is properly cleaned, your podiatrist will likely apply medication and protective dressings. If the wound is infected, they may prescribe an oral antibiotic or apply a topical antibiotic directly to the site. Other medications that promote healing like collagen or growth factors may also be used. Sterile gauze and foam dressings will help to cover the wound. Specialty dressings containing silver or other antimicrobial ingredients are also options for preventing infection. This tailored treatment plan protects the wound and sets the stage for healing.

With the right treatment from your podiatrist, your foot wound should start showing signs of improvement. Be sure to follow up as directed, so they can monitor your progress. Proper wound care from a podiatrist gets you back on your feet again. If you have a wound on your foot, our podiatrist can help with wound treatment. Reach out to Dr. Daniel Brandwein DPM, PA, FACFAS today to schedule an appointment.