Diabetic Foot
Description
This is one of the complications in diabetes sufferers, consisting of a progressive loss of sensation in the feet, with ulcers and alterations to the skin. If these phenomena do not heal, they can develop into muscular atrophy of the foot or serious infections that in some cases may require amputation. The causes are the classic effects of diabetes itself, namely the narrowing of the arteries, which are no longer able to correctly supply the lower limbs with blood, significantly reducing their sensitivity and leaving them exposed to cold and traumas or injuries that heal only with great difficulty.
Treatment types
A mixture of phototherapy, ultrasound and magnetotherapy complemented by TENS, if desired.
Method of action
Ultrasound
This form of therapy helps to build new tissue and ensure the proper alignment of the tissue fibres so that full strength and flexibility can be restored. In the case of a chronic illness, ultrasound can slow the development and help to manage symptoms.
Ultrasound therapy can:
- Provide an analgesic effect.
- Improve blood flow and restore normal cell activity to produce an anti-swelling effect.
Phototherapy — infrared
Since infrared therapy enhances and improves circulation in the skin and other parts of the body, it can bring oxygen and nutrients to injured tissues and promote healing. It helps to ease pain, relieve inflammation and protect against oxidative stress.
Phototherapy — blue light
Helps to relieve skin irritation and promote wound healing.
Magnetotherapy
Magnetotherapy offers an anti-inflammatory and anti-swelling effect on top of its ability to reduce pain and improve blood circulation.
TENS
The electrical impulses reduce the pain signals going to the spinal cord and brain by temporarily ‘switching off’ the nerve endings of the affected area — thus, helping to relieve pain and relax the muscles. These impulses also stimulate the production of endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers.
