Diabetic Foot Ulcers at Foot and Ankle Centers

Diabetic Foot Ulcers: What You Need to Know

Living with diabetes requires careful management of your health, and one of the most important yet often overlooked areas is foot care. Diabetes can lead to poor circulation and nerve damage (neuropathy), making the feet vulnerable to ulcers—open sores that don’t heal properly. If left untreated, diabetic foot ulcers can lead to serious infections, tissue damage, and even amputation in severe cases.

At Foot & Ankle Centers, we specialize in early detection, treatment, and prevention of diabetic foot ulcers to help patients avoid complications and maintain mobility. Here’s everything you need to know about diabetic foot ulcers, their causes, treatments, and why early intervention is crucial.

What Causes Diabetic Foot Ulcers?

Diabetic foot ulcers develop when minor injuries, pressure, or irritation turn into open sores that do not heal. Several factors contribute to this condition:

1. Poor Circulation

Diabetes can cause reduced blood flow to the feet, making it difficult for wounds to heal. Without proper circulation, even small cuts or blisters can become chronic wounds.

2. Nerve Damage (Peripheral Neuropathy)

High blood sugar levels over time can damage the nerves in the feet, causing numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation. When this happens, you may not feel pain from cuts, blisters, or pressure sores—leading to ulcers that go unnoticed until they become severe.

3. Increased Pressure on the Feet

Wearing ill-fitting shoes, having foot deformities (bunions, hammertoes, or Charcot foot), or excessive pressure points can lead to the development of ulcers. Without proper foot support, pressure injuries can worsen quickly.

4. Infections

Once an ulcer forms, it creates an open gateway for bacteria, which can lead to serious infections. If left untreated, infections can spread to deeper tissues, bones, and even the bloodstream, increasing the risk of amputation.

Signs & Symptoms: When to See a Doctor

Recognizing the early warning signs of diabetic foot ulcers can save your foot and prevent severe complications. Watch for:

Redness, swelling, or warmth around a wound
Drainage or pus coming from the sore
A foul odor from the affected area
Skin discoloration or blackened tissue (a sign of necrosis)
Pain or tenderness (though some may feel no pain due to neuropathy)
Slow-healing cuts, blisters, or sores

If you notice any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention to prevent the ulcer from worsening.

How Are Diabetic Foot Ulcers Treated?

At Foot & Ankle Centers, we provide personalized treatment plans to promote healing and prevent complications. Treatment options include:

Professional Wound Care

• Cleaning and removing dead tissue (debridement) to encourage new skin growth.

• Applying specialized dressings to protect the wound and promote healing.

Offloading Pressure

• Custom orthotics, special footwear, or casts may be used to reduce pressure on the ulcer.

• Offloading helps the wound heal faster by preventing further irritation.

Infection Management

• Antibiotics are prescribed if there are signs of infection.

• Regular monitoring ensures the infection does not spread to the bones (osteomyelitis).

Advanced Treatments

• Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) to improve oxygen delivery to the tissues and speed up healing.

• Skin grafting for severe ulcers that do not heal with conventional treatments.

Surgery (For Severe Cases)

• If an ulcer is deep, severely infected, or affecting bone and tissue, surgical intervention may be necessary.

• In extreme cases, amputation may be required to stop life-threatening infections from spreading.

Preventing Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Essential Foot Care Tips

Prevention is the best approach when it comes to diabetic foot ulcers. Follow these essential foot care tips to reduce your risk:

Inspect Your Feet Daily – Check for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling. Use a mirror or ask a loved one for help if needed.

Wear Proper Footwear – Avoid tight or ill-fitting shoes that can create pressure points. Opt for diabetic-friendly shoes with extra cushioning and support.

Keep Feet Clean & Moisturized – Wash your feet daily with warm (not hot) water and mild soap. Apply moisturizer to prevent dry, cracked skin, but avoid putting lotion between the toes.

Trim Nails Carefully – Cut toenails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails, which can lead to infections.

Control Blood Sugar Levels – Keeping your blood sugar stable helps reduce nerve damage and improves circulation.

Regular Foot Exams – Visit a podiatrist at least once a year (or more often if you have existing foot problems) for routine check-ups.

Why Early Detection is Key

The sooner a diabetic foot ulcer is detected and treated, the better the chances of healing and avoiding serious complications. Many amputations caused by diabetes-related foot ulcers could have been prevented with early intervention.

At Foot & Ankle Centers, our team of experts specializes in diabetic foot care, wound management, and preventative treatments to ensure our patients stay healthy and mobile.

Take Action: Schedule Your Foot Exam Today

If you have diabetes, don’t wait until foot pain or ulcers appear—be proactive about your foot health. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms of an ulcer or just want to ensure your feet are in good condition, we’re here to help.