Chronic foot ulcers remain the most pressing challenge for LCDPs, affecting mobility, quality of life, and increasing stigma. Without timely care, these ulcers can persist for decades and lead to amputation. Effective management depends on regular dressing, appropriate medication, and self-care.
Sri Ramakrishna Math, Chennai, with the approval of Govt of Tamil Nadu, conducts weekly ulcer dressing camps at multiple locations—Chennai, Poonamalli, Kanchipuram, Madurai, Salem, and Kumbakonam—benefiting around 250 LCDPs. These camps follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and are led by trained LCDP volunteers. To strengthen their skills and outcome on wound healing among LCDPs, a regional workshop was held on 10th May 2025 to train volunteers in ulcer care, deformity management, rehabilitation, and post-healing self-care.
The workshop began with Arati followed by a welcome address by Dr. S. Sivasubramanian, who highlighted Swami Vivekananda’s ideals of service to the leprosy-affected Divyangjan. Participants demonstrated dressing procedures and were assessed on PPE use, sterilization, cleaning, and dressing steps by Shri R. Siva, who provided feedback to ensure SOP adherence. Dr. Senthil Kumaran highlighted the role of MCR footwear and foot care. Sessions included live demonstrations and discussions on ulcer types, causes, dressing materials, and self-care tools. The performance of each camp was reviewed based on enrolment, attendance, healing progress, stock maintenance and SOP compliance, and challenges were addressed collectively. The workshop concluded with feedback, distribution of materials, and temple visits. A total of 15 participants, including 8 LCDPs from all camp sites, attended.
The workshop is envisaged to achieve reduction in ulcer burden through sustainability of ulcer dressing services with essential skills in various sites across Tamil Nadu.