PRESSURE BASED ULCERS MORE COMMON IN OLDER DIABETICS

Foot ulcers are very common in those who have diabetes, says Bruce Pinker, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist and foot surgeon who treats diabetic foot ulcers. According to Dr. Pinker, "Diabetes suppresses the immune system, reducing the body's response to stress, infection, and injury." This, in turn, makes it harder for those with diabetes to heal from a wound than those who do not have diabetes—which can lead to and exacerbate foot ulcers.

 

Dr. Bruce Pinker

 

"In many cases, diabetics develop a breakdown of the skin on the bottom of the feet, especially in pressure point areas, such as the ball of the foot or the heel," Dr. Pinker explains. "Older individuals are more inclined to develop these pressure-based foot ulcers as the repetitive motion of walking for several years leads to increased stress in the feet." 

 

Source: Kali Coleman, Best Life [4/5/21]

Courtesy of Barry Block, editor of PM News