Pressure Ulcers

A pressure ulcer or pressure sore develops when remaining in one position for too long puts continuous pressure on one area of the skin. Pressure ulcers on the feet can be caused by prolonged bed rest or sitting in one position all the time.

If detected in the early stages, a pressure ulcer can go away after a few days if the position is changed and the pressure is relieved. When untreated or not noticed for too long, the ulcer will grow deeper into the skin and underlying tissues and can lead to a serious infection. immediate medical attention is necessary.

Pressure sores can also result from friction on the bottom of the feet. The skin tissue thickens into calluses, and the pressure placed on the underlying tissues by the callus causes an ulcer. Blisters can form, break, and cause an open sore to develop.

Pressure ulcers are common in patients with medical conditions such as:

• Hypertension

• Diabetes

• Kidney disease

The first stage of a pressure ulcer is the mildest, and the ulcer only affects the upper layer of skin. The ulcer progresses to the second stage when it goes deeper into the skin. A blister may form in the second stage.

Topical creams may be beneficial to mild or moderate pressure ulcers. Antibiotics may be necessary if an infection has developed to keep it from spreading. For faster healing, the foot may need to be elevated to increase circulation.

To prevent future pressure ulcers, shoe inserts may be recommended to relieve pressure points.

If you are looking for a podiatrist to treat a foot ulcer, call Shari L. Kaminsky, DPM PC, at 314-355-0074.