Ayurvedic Management of Diabetic Foot

A diabetic foot may be defined as a syndrome in which neuropathy, angiopathy and infection will lead to tissue breakdown resulting in morbidity and possible amputations.

 “Every 30 minutes a limb is lost due to a landmine, every 30 seconds a limb is lost due to diabetes.”

Pathology of Diabetic Foot

The high blood sugar levels may eventually damage the nerves especially in the feet. When the nerves are damaged the patient does not feel pain and will not know that if he/she has an injury. High blood sugar levels may also damage blood vessels, resulting in poor blood supply to the area. Less blood supply means less nutrients & oxygen for the tissue cells. So, the ulcer becomes more infected and infection grows rapidly and gangrene develops. Now diabetic foot may convert in to diabetic gangrene.

Investigations Required

•  ESR

•  CBC count

•  Platelet count

•  Blood culture

•  Arteriogram for blockage in blood vessels

•  X-ray may be done for vascular calcification or bony erosion

Ayurvedic Management of  Diabetic Foot

In Sushruta Samhita, diabetic foot is correlated with ‘madhumeha vrana’. During its description, Sushruta stated that the management of these vranas is difficult i.e. Kashtsadhaya. According to Sushruta, meda and rakta along with other dosha and dushya lead to formation of premehapidika which later is converted to non-healing wound and also further specified that wounds of lower limb are difficult to heal.

Diabetics need to know

•             Daily foot inspection  for redness, crack in skin or sores.

•             Daily foot care. Dry completely between toes and use lotion to keep skin moist.

•             Regular visit to the physician.

•             Foot care education.

•             Wearing proper shoes at all time. Do not go barefoot.

•             Early treatment of any trouble areas.

•             People with diabetes should have a foot examination every year.

•             Checking for sensation (feeling) in the foot.

•             Looking at the foot for changes in shape and size

•             Checking blood flow and circulation.

•             Looking for discoloration.

Tips for Care of Diabetic Foot

•             Maintaining a persistent  normal blood sugar level.

•             Do aggressive measures to bring blood sugar back to normal.

•             Regular cleaning and debridement of fibrous tissue and slough.