Diabetic Foot Injections

Diabetic foot syndrome is a complex of metabolic disorders that develop against the background of elevated blood glucose levels. Its elevated level leads to damage to nerves and vessels, which impairs blood circulation and reduces sensitivity in the lower extremities. As a result, even minor injuries and scrapes can develop into dangerous ulcers that are difficult to heal and can cause serious infections. This is the most serious of all diabetes complications and can lead to severe consequences, up to and including amputation.

Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, under the direction of Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, a leading podiatric surgeon, actively uses injectable treatments to manage the diabetic foot. Injecting medications directly into the affected area allows for:

• reduce swelling and redness characteristic of diabetic ulcers;
• improve blood circulation and stimulate tissue regeneration;
• promote rapid wound healing;
• prevent the development of infectious complications;
• provide relief and improve the patient's quality of life.

Injectable treatment is a key factor in a comprehensive approach to diabetic foot care aimed at maintaining healthy feet and preventing amputation.

When Are Diabetic Foot Injections Recommended?

Diabetic foot injections are recommended:

• when traditional therapies may not be effective enough;
• when a quick and targeted treatment of the problem areas is needed;
• when it is necessary to accelerate the healing process;
• and to prevent serious complications such as amputation.

Injections are prescribed for the following conditions and symptoms

Inflammation

• The development of inflammation in the affected area.

Diabetic ulcers

• Occur as a result of impaired circulation and decreased sensation in the feet.
• Ulcers often develop on the sole, heel or toes and may take a long time to heal.

Infections

• Redness, swelling, pain, and pus discharge are all signs of infection. 
• Injection treatment may be recommended if the infection spreads or becomes chronic. 

Chronic pain

• Diabetic foot is often accompanied by chronic pain caused by inflammation, nerve damage, or the presence of ulcers. In these cases, injections may be prescribed to relieve the pain.

At Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, each of our patients receives an individualized treatment plan based on their specific symptoms, allowing for the best results in a short period of time.

Preparation to Injections

Proper preparation before diabetic foot injection therapy can help minimize risks and increase the effectiveness of treatment.

The first step in preparation is a consultation with a podiatrist.

Consultation. The doctor will perform a detailed examination of the feet, analyze your medical history and symptoms. This will determine the need for injection therapy and select the most appropriate medication and injection technique. The doctor will discuss with you all the possible risks and benefits of this treatment method so that you can make an informed decision. Additional tests may be prescribed for an accurate diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen.

1. General and biochemical blood tests: to assess glucose levels and to determine the level of inflammatory markers.
2. Ultrasound of the vessels of the lower extremities: to assess the condition of the vessels and identify circulatory disorders.
3. X-ray of the foot: to detect bony changes and assess the degree of joint damage.
4. MRI: to obtain more detailed information about the condition of soft tissues and bones.

To reduce the risk of complications and side effects, a number of pre-injection measures should be performed before injections:

• antisepsis: treating the feet and injection area with antiseptic agents to prevent infections;
• blood glucose monitoring: blood sugar levels should be checked before the procedure, as rapid fluctuations can affect healing and the overall effectiveness of the treatment.
• discussion of current medications: the patient should inform the physician of all medications being taken, including anticoagulants and anti-inflammatory drugs, to avoid negative interactions.
• allergy testing: if the patient is allergic to any medications, tests may be required to check for reactions to the drugs that will be used for injections.

At Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, each of our patients receives detailed instructions and support at every step of treatment to ensure that injection therapy is safe and effective.

The Injection Process

The treatment process involves several steps.

Preparation. Cleaning and treatment of the injection area with an antiseptic solution. To minimize discomfort, local anesthesia may be used.

Selection of drugs and injection. Preparations that are injected directly into the affected area, allow you to achieve a high concentration of the drug substance in the focus of the lesion and effectively combat pathological manifestations. Different drugs can be used in the treatment process, depending on the goals and the patient's condition.

1. Anti-inflammatory agents: are injected into the area of severe inflammation to reduce swelling and pain. Especially relevant for patients with chronic ulcers or severe pain.
2. Antibiotics: injected directly into the affected area if there is any evidence of infection. This allows a high concentration of the drug to reach the site of infection and effectively fight the bacteria.
3. Drugs that stimulate tissue repair processes: used to accelerate the healing of ulcers, improve blood circulation and stimulate tissue regeneration.

After injection, the injection site is lightly massaged to evenly distribute the medication.

Expected Outcomes

The first results of treatment usually become noticeable a few weeks after starting therapy. 

Positive results:

• improved healing of even the most complex ulcers;
• reduced pain without the need for long-term pain medication;
• reduction in swelling;
• restoration of foot function.

Thanks to individualized therapy and the use of modern medications, patients can avoid relapses and remain active and independent in their daily activities.

Benefits of Diabetic Foot Injections at Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic

Choosing diabetic foot injection treatment at Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic offers patients a number of significant benefits that make it one of the most effective and safe methods for managing the complications of diabetes.

We offer:

• individualized treatment plans that are best suited to the individual patient, ensuring that injection therapy is highly effective;
• modern, proven, targeted medications that help to achieve rapid improvement in the patient's condition;
• the use of modern methods of drug administration, which reduces the risk of side effects and complications;
• a comprehensive approach to treatment - diagnosis, counseling, monitoring of the patient's condition and follow-up. This allows us to achieve long-term results, prevent relapses and maintain foot health.

Our leading specialist, Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, is a highly qualified podiatric surgeon with many years of experience in treating patients with diabetic feet. His in-depth knowledge and experience allow him to effectively manage the most complex cases, minimize risks, and ensure positive treatment outcomes.

When you choose Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, you are making the right choice.