Any patients with a history of wounds or underlying medical issues, like diabetes and peripheral arterial disease, should seek immediate medical attention. In Palm Beach County, you need to look no further than Dr Aldo Gonzalezand Dr Xavier Sanchez who specialize in all aspects of wound care. At Ankle & Foot Center of Florida, we can provide same day or next day appointments to address wound care issues. Make your appointment by calling today, or for less urgent issues, use the online booking tool.
Wound Care Q & A
What are some common causes of foot wounds?
The skin on the bottom of your feet is tough and durable, but it’s susceptible to cuts, gashes, and puncture wounds. This is especially true in South Florida where many people go barefoot or wear flip-flops.
Other common causes of foot wounds include wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, participating in high-impact sports like running or basketball, and working in hazardous environments like construction sites.
Certain health problems also increase your risk of foot wounds. For example, diabetes, neuropathy and vascular disease, can all lead to foot wounds.
When should I see a doctor regarding a foot wound?
If you are of good standing health, basic first aid should be attempted immediately at home. Apply pressure to the wound to stop the bleeding, and then wash the wound with soap and water. Afterward, apply an antibiotic cream and cover with sterile bandages that can be obtained at a local pharmacy.
If the wound is gaping or if there is any exposed muscle, tendon or bone, seek immediate medical help.
If bleeding continues or your wound becomes painful to the touch, seek professional medical help. Other telltale signs of a more serious wound include:
● Drainage
● Swelling
● Redness
● Warmth
● Odor
● When in doubt, seek medical attention!
If you suffer from diabetes, circulatory disease, neurologic & immune deficiency disorders, any wound should be evaluated by a professional the same day or next day. You should also seek immediate medical attention if you have a history of previous wounds, and/or have a history of delayed wound healing.
How do you diagnose and treat foot wounds?
At the Ankle & Footer Center of Florida, the history of the wound, medical history, physical exam & radiographic imaging, are used to arrive at a treatment plan for the wound.
Whenever possible Dr. Gonzalez and Dr. Sanchez treat foot wounds using conservative measures of care including rest, bandages, and prescription antibiotics. If you have diabetes or a circulatory disorder, further workup with vascular testing may be required to assist in wound healing.
Dr Gonzalez and Dr Sanchez have many years of practice with office-based and hospital-based wound care management. Comprehensive care is provided utilizing advanced wound care products, like stem cell grafts, & collaboration with Infectious Disease & Vascular specialists in the area when indicated.Dr Xavier Sanchez is currently managing patients at the JFK Wound Management & Limb Preservation Center .
For comprehensive care of lower extremity wounds, please make an appointment at Ankle and Foot Center of Florida today.