Role of Leech Therapy in the Management of Diabetic Foot Ulcer: A Case Study

Abstract

In today's world, diabetes mellitus has become increasingly prevalent due to sedentary lifestyles and changing dietary habits. Diabetic foot ulcers are a serious complication of diabetes mellitus and a leading cause of lower limb amputations. Proper management is crucial to prevent severe outcomes and typically involves blood sugar control, wound debridement, dressings, and offloading techniques. Despite advancements in healthcare, approximately 3% of patients still undergo lower limb amputations. This case study presents a 45-year-old male with a non-healing diabetic wound on the plantar aspect of his right great toe. The patient was treated using bloodletting therapy (Jalaukavacharana) along with Ayurvedic medicines. Over the course of two months, gradual improvement was observed, leading to complete wound healing. This case highlights the potential of Ayurvedic treatment approach in managing chronic Diabetic foot and ulcers is improving patient outcomes.