Wounds can happen to anyone, anywhere, and taking care of them properly and quickly is essential for preventing infection and promoting healing. Foot wounds, however, can be tricky. Your feet are constantly in use and often exposed to the elements. There are some unique considerations when treating wounds on your feet that you wouldn’t need for cuts elsewhere on your body! The North Texas Foot & Ankle team is unpacking the fundamentals of wound care, with a special focus on how to keep wounds on your feet safe and healthy.

Cleanliness is Key

The first step in wound care is to keep the area clean. This is the first step for nearly any wound, cut or scrape you’d need to treat on your body. For wounds on the feet, this means gently washing the affected area with mild soap and lukewarm water. Make sure to remove any debris or foreign objects. Use a clean, soft cloth or sterile gauze to pat the area dry. Avoid using alcohol or hydrogen peroxide as they can be too harsh and delay healing.

Protection and Dressing

Protecting the wound is crucial, especially on the feet. Apply an antibiotic ointment to help prevent infection. Depending on the size and location of the wound, use an appropriate dressing. 

For smaller wounds, adhesive bandages (a standard Band-Aid) might suffice. Larger or more exposed wounds may require sterile gauze pads and adhesive tape. Change the dressing regularly, keeping the wound clean and free from infection. 

Elevate When Possible

With wounds on your foot, try to keep it elevated when sitting or lying down! This reduces swelling and promotes better blood circulation to the area, which can speed up the healing process.

Avoid Weight-Bearing

Most wounds are fine to walk on, but if the wound is large enough, you might have to lay off bearing a ton of weight. Minimize weight-bearing on the affected foot, especially if the wound is on the sole. It’s tricky, but avoiding excessive pressure on the wound will aid in faster recovery. Using crutches or a walking aid may be necessary, depending on the wound’s location and size. If you want tips, our team can help you out! 

Keep an Eye on Signs of Infection

Infections can slow down the healing process and even lead to more serious health issues. Watch for signs of infection, which may include increased redness, swelling, warmth, pain, or the presence of pus. If you notice any of these symptoms, give us a call at 214-574-WALK (9255).

Choose the Right Footwear

Proper footwear is crucial for wound care on the feet. Choose shoes that provide good support and cushioning to reduce pressure on the wound. Avoid open-toed shoes or sandals that expose the wound to dirt and potential injury. Well-fitting, breathable shoes with ample toe room are your best bet. Additionally, make sure your socks are clean and made of breathable fabric! 

Consult a Healthcare Professional

If the wound on your foot is deep, doesn’t heal, or shows signs of infection, consult a healthcare professional like the team at North Texas Foot & Ankle. We can provide the appropriate treatment, such as stitches, antibiotics, or wound care advice tailored to your specific needs. Book an appointment with us by visiting our appointment form or by giving us a call at 214-574-WALK (9255).