Perspective on healing foot ulcers by Yaquis with diabetes

Abstract

This research was an ethnographic study of the perceptions of Yaqui adults (N=4) with diabetes regarding healing foot ulcers. The conceptual framework for this study consisted of the cultural and social factors from Leininger's Sunrise Model (Leininger, 1991 ), reflected in the domains of the Sunrise Model's Religious and Philosophical Factors, Kinship and Social Factors, and Cultural Values and Lifeways. The domains of meaning identified are: Experiences with Having Foot ulcers, SelfCare (Beliefs and Practice), Faith and Strength, Types of Support, Difficulties of Diabetes, Prevention of Reoccurrence, and Ceremonies. The four cultural themes that emerged from the analysis are: (a) Belief in God is expressed in prayers that give power for healing and strength to keep on going; (b) In the Yaqui way of life, the way to keep a "healthy life" is to take care of oneself; (c) Foot ulcer is a "modern illness" that is similar to a "broken heart" that will take time to heal; and (d) Support is important to survive a difficult journey in life.