Why Choose Us For Wound Care?

Choosing the best possible option for treating your wound is extremely important, not just for diabetics but for anyone with a traumatic wound or venous insufficiency. If you’re looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of the hospital or the wound clinic, Illinois Foot & Ankle Center may be the option for you. Often times, wound care requires several treatments. We strive to stay on schedule and do not overbook, saving you a lot of time versus crowded hospitals.
During her training, Dr. May spent three years working in four different wound clinics. This provided her with invaluable experience treating wounds of all types. Now, she is able to treat patients in the comfort of her own office, with access to the latest and best in grafts and other wound care products. Continue reading to learn more about the different types of wounds and why treatment from a highly qualified physician such as Dr. May is important

Diabetic Wound Care

For those who are diabetic, it is important to see a podiatrist at least annually for preventative care. Something as simple as a callus can erupt into a diabetic foot ulceration quickly, requiring immediate treatment. Diabetic shoes or inserts can help prevent incidence of friction that leads to calluses, reducing the risk of an ulceration.

Some diabetic patients may be considered high risk. This would include those with decreased sensation (neuropathy) as well as decreased blood flow. If you are a high-risk patient, Medicare and other major insurances usually cover check-ups and nail care every 9 weeks.

 

Venous Insufficiency

This is the result of extreme lower extremity edema, which is caused by poor vein function. Ulcerations develop due to excessive swelling and stretching of the skin.

Symptoms associated with venous insufficiency include:

  • Itching
  • Dry/peeling skin
  • Blisters on lower legs that “leak”
  • Tiredness in legs when walking
  • Legs feel heavy

Traumatic Wounds

If you’ve been injured and have a wound that will not heal, you may require wound care treatment to prevent further complications.

We are proud to be featured as a Center of Excellence in Diabetic Foot Care. We offer some of the most comprehensive services available in the area for diabetic patients.Proper Diabetic Foot Care includes far more than nail care. We are able to provide our patients with a Comprehensive Diabetic Foot Exam each year, and are a participating provider in the Diabetic Shoe Program. And though we do all we can to prevent ulcers, Dr. May is highly trained and experienced in wound care.

Wound Care Treatment

Your treatment will be customized to fit your specific needs. The following are examples of common steps taken during the wound care process:
  • X-rays may be needed. We have digital x-ray available in our office, greatly speeding up the process. In some cases, an MRI may also be required.
  • Labs and cultures/biopsies may be required to ensure proper diagnosis.
  • If warranted, antibiotics may be prescribed.
  • Off-loading for diabetic foot ulcerations by use of specialty shoes.
  • Compression dressings for edema and venous insufficiency.
  • Amniotic (stem cell) grafts
  • Collagen and/or several other wound care products
  • Wound vacs (negative pressure therapy)