Diabetic foot wounds are among the most serious complications people with diabetes can face. They may seem minor at first, but without proper care, they can quickly become infected and lead to hospitalization or worse. While seeing a wound care specialist regularly is critical, what you do between appointments can make all the difference in healing.
1. Clean the Diabetic Foot Wound Gently, But Consistently
Once your specialist has cleaned the wound initially, follow their instructions for daily or twice-daily gentle cleaning at home. Typically, this involves:
– Rinsing the wound with saline solution or mild soap and water
– Gently patting it dry with sterile gauze or a clean cloth
– Avoiding hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, which can slow healing
2. Keep Your Diabetic Foot Wound Covered and Moist
A moist wound environment promotes faster healing. Use the dressing type recommended by your provider — whether that’s a hydrogel pad, foam, or sterile gauze with ointment. Change the dressing exactly as instructed, and always wash your hands before and after.
Never let a diabetic foot wound “air out.” That outdated advice can delay healing and increase infection risk.
Pro Tip
3. Reduce Pressure on Your Diabetic Foot Wound with Offloading
Every step you take puts pressure on the wound — and pressure slows healing. That’s why offloading (removing pressure from the wound) is crucial for recovery.
If you don’t have a medical boot or offloading shoe, try this at-home practice:
Home Tip: When resting, elevate your leg with a pillow under the calf (not the heel) so the foot is slightly above heart level. This reduces pressure and improves circulation to the area. When walking around the house, limit movement to essential tasks only and avoid standing for long periods.
If the wound is on the ball of your foot or heel, you can also use a rolled towel or small cushion to shift pressure when seated.
Note: While these strategies help, they’re no substitute for professional offloading gear. Ask your wound care team about options you can afford or have covered by insurance.
4. Monitor Your Diabetic Foot Wound Daily for Signs of Infection
Infection can happen fast. Check for:
– Redness, swelling, or warmth around the wound
– Pus or drainage
– A foul smell
– Fever or chills
– Pain that suddenly increases
If you notice any of these signs, contact our wound care team immediately.
Benefits When You Schedule an Appointment At Wound Care St Augustine
- One-on-one consultation with a wound care specialist
- Personalized treatment plan tailored to your condition
- Access to advanced therapies, including HBOT
- Clear communication and compassionate support
- Insurance verification and flexible scheduling
- A healing-focused environment right here in St. Augustine
Get Professional Wound Care – Call Now (904) 342-5003
5. Control Blood Sugar & Stay Hydrated
High blood sugar reduces your body’s ability to heal. Keep your glucose levels in check with medication, diet, and hydration. Healing is a full-body effort, and what you eat and drink plays a big role.
Remember: wound healing is a partnership. By following your home care routine and staying alert to changes, you’re giving yourself the best shot at recovery.
Have questions between visits? Don’t wait. Call your wound care provider to make sure you’re on the right track.
Address Medical
St Augustine:
150 Southpark Blvd, Ste 102 St. Augustine, FL 32086
Palatka:
150 Southpark Blvd, Ste 102 St. Augustine, FL 32086
Hours: 8:00am – 4:00pm
