Diabetic foot and ulcers: close the wound before it's too late

Why a small wound becomes a big problem

Diabetes damages nerves (neuropathy) and small and medium arteries. The foot loses sensation, so a blister or cut goes unnoticed, and receives less blood and oxygen, so it doesn't heal. The result is the diabetic foot: an ulcer that gets infected and, according to the WHO, is the leading cause of non-traumatic amputation.

Acting on the wound early changes the prognosis.

Warning signs

• Wound or blister that hasn't closed in two weeks
• Dark, cold or shiny skin on the foot
• Loss of sensation, tingling
• Bad odor, discharge or redness
• Pain walking that eases with rest
• Thickened nails, cracked heels

Antibiotics and conventional dressings fail when the tissue gets no oxygen. Ozone brings exactly what's missing: oxygenation, germicidal action and a healing stimulus.

Local and systemic ozone: two fronts against the ulcer

Local: the foot is placed in a sealed bag where ozone circulates at a controlled concentration. It kills bacteria, fungi and viruses in the wound (including antibiotic-resistant strains), cleans the tissue and stimulates new tissue growth. Systemic: autohemotherapy or rectal insufflation to improve circulation, oxygenation of distal tissue and glucose control.

How the treatment works

1. Urgent evaluation: ulcer grading, circulation and sensation check, glucose control.
2. Ozone bagging: 2 to 3 sessions per week, 30 minutes, with specialized wound care.
3. Systemic ozone: autohemotherapy or rectal insufflation to improve circulation and defenses.
4. Prevention: footwear, skin care and metabolic control so it doesn't reopen.

Who is a candidate?

People with diabetes and wounds, ulcers or infections on feet or legs, and patients with chronic venous or pressure ulcers. The evaluation includes checking circulation: with severe arterial blockage we coordinate with vascular surgery.