An infected wound occurs when bacteria or germs enter the body through a cut or tear in the skin. As the infection spreads, it increases the risk of more severe issues, like fever or tissue death (gangrene). At Alpine Foot & Ankle, double board-certified podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon Scott Shelton, DPM, provides wound care to people of all ages. Dr. Shelton specializes in diabetic wound care. He can safely debride dead skin and tissue and apply topical ointments or dressings to promote healing. To make an appointment, call the office in Highland, Utah, or book online today.
request an appointmentWhat does a wound care specialist do?
A wound specialist is a professional who specializes in the expert care and treatment of acute, chronic, and non-healing wounds.
Acute wounds include cuts and tears from:
- Animal bites
- Burns
- Surgical procedures
Chronic wounds refer to pressure sores and diabetic ulcers.
What is the meaning of wound care?
Wound care involves every stage of wound management, including diagnosing wound type, considering factors that affect wound healing, and proper treatments for wound management.
Once the wound is diagnosed and all factors are considered, a board-certified podiatrist and ankle surgeon like Dr. Shelton at Alpine Foot & Ankle can determine the best treatment options.
Dr. Shelton specializes in diagnosing and treating infected wounds that form on the ankles, feet, toes, and lower legs. His vast knowledge and expertise help to reduce the risk of complications and improve quality of life.
When should I see a podiatrist or other specialist for wound care?
Make an appointment to see Dr. Shelton right away if you have a diabetic ulcer, surgical incision, or open wound on your feet or legs and it doesn’t improve with at-home treatments like topical ointments and regularly changing the dressings.
This is especially true if you develop a fever or other signs of infection.
What are the symptoms of an infected wound?
The symptoms of an infected wound include:
- Chills
- Fever
- Warm skin around the wound
- Aches
- Pain
- Green or yellow discharge
- Unpleasant odor
As the infection worsens, you might also become nauseous or start vomiting.
What can I expect from wound care?
Treatment of wounds depends on many factors, including age, medical history, type, and wound location.
Dr. Shelton might recommend oral antibiotics, stitches, or sutures to close the wound, cleaning the wound several times daily, topical wound ointment, and alginate dressings. He can also perform debridement to remove dead or dirty tissue. He may prescribe a tetanus shot if an animal bite or a rusty object caused your wound.
How can I reduce my risk of an infected wound?
Dr. Shelton recommends washing your hands with soap and water, using clean first-aid equipment, and cleaning the wound of dirt or debris before covering it. You can reduce your risk of an infected wound by practicing good wound hygiene if you cut or injure your ankle or foot.
Call Alpine Foot & Ankle to receive excellent wound care. Or request an appointment online today.
