Diabetic foot ulcers are most commonly caused by poor circulation,high blood sugar (hyperglycemia)nerve damage this condition is sadly one of many issues that come from having diabetes.However in recent years a new treatment has been found to be beneficial. This treatment is known as HBOT.
What are Diabetic Foot Ulcers?
A diabetic foot ulcer is a common complication that comes with diabetes that results in sores on the feet. The sores tend to be on the surface of the skin exposing the layers underneath, but they can also be deep enough to expose tendons or bones.
If a diabetic foot wound is not treated right away, it can develop into:
- An abscess
- A spreading infection of the skin and underlying fat
- A bone infection
How Does Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Help to Treat Diabetic Foot Ulcers?
In addition to the standard care for diabetic foot ulcer, Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been suggested as a potential additional therapy in cases where the normal treatment has failed to heal the wound.
Oxygen is transported ,dissolved in the blood and also in combination with haemoglobin the red blood cells. Although haemoglobin carries most of the oxygen,it is only the dissolved oxygen that passes into the tissues.
Breathing high levels of oxygen “When you breathe in these high concentrations of oxygen under hyperbaric conditions, over time, it will stimulate your body to grow new blood vessels,” says Kelly Johnson-Arbor, MD, medical director of hyperbaric medicine at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, DC.
General guidance, especially on protocols and the likelihood of benefit, is obtained from the coordinator of the Oxygen Helpline Petra Kliempt BSc MPH PhD, who is the Hon. Specialist Trainer in Hyperbaric Medicine to the NHS in Scotland. The Oxygen Helpline and MS National Therapy Centres are also assisted by the Hon. Medical Adviser Emeritus Professor Philip B.James
It is always recommended that clients visit their GP or Consultant before commencing HBOT.
There is no intention implied or otherwise that HBOT is given so with the intention of it being a cure diagnosis or as a preventative for any disease. Any references, studies or testimonials on our website, or in our literature does not imply that similar results will occur when the same therapy is experienced by another.