Dealing with Diabetic Foot Ulcers

A diabetic foot ulcer is the result of skin tissue breaking down from constant pressure and forming an open sore or wound, typically on the bottom of your foot. People with chronic conditions, such as diabetes, are particularly susceptible to foot ulcers. In fact, about 15 percent of all people with diabetes will develop a foot ulcer at some point in their lives.

In most cases, one of the first signs a patient notices with a foot ulcer is drainage from their foot, but it’s also common to notice swelling, irritation, and/or odor from one or both feet. If you start to notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a podiatrist immediately, as not all signs of foot ulcers are obvious; some may initially resemble a callous or blister with fluid underneath, with red or yellow tissue at the base. If an infection has already set in, it’s common for a toe or part of the foot to turn black due to the absence of healthy blood flow.

Common causes of diabetic ulcers:

During an initial evaluation, your podiatrist will assess the wound and your circulation, in order to determine the best course of action. Depending on the severity, there are several treatment options including debridement, which is the removal of dead or infected tissue from the ulcer, dressings, which are the application of special materials, solutions, or ointments to the wound, and off-loading, which is the use of casts or boots to help decrease pressure at the ulcer site.

The best way to prevent an ulcer on the foot from forming, however, is to treat the underlying health problem, have routine visits with your podiatrists, and follow these important steps:

“It’s important to seek care as soon as possible for any cut or wound on the foot,” Dr. Marc Borovoy, a podiatric physician at Associated Podiatrists PC, recommends. “Most wounds have the ability to heal with proper treatment, but a small problem can quickly escalate into a major one if left untreated.”

If you or someone you know is diabetic and/or believes they may have an ulcer, it’s important to have frequent visits with your podiatrist. Our podiatrists are experts in all areas of foot and ankle care, and will be happy to assist you with any problems you may be experiencing. Feel free to contact our office at (248)348-5300 or request an appointment on our website.

Author
Associated Podiatrists PC

You Might Also Enjoy...

Are your feet tingling?

What is Neuropathy: Peripheral neuropathy happens when the nerves that are located outside of the brain and spinal cord (peripheral nerves) are damaged. This condition often causes weakness, numbness, and pain, usually in the hands and feet.

Do you need orthotics?

You only have one pair of feet, and they take you everywhere so it’s very important to take care of them while we can. Misalignment in your feet can result in several problems such as, pronation, flat feet, ect.

Do You Have Bunions?

A bunion, or hallux valgus, is a hard bony bump that forms on the joint of the big toe. They are formed when there is stress on the joint, from things like, tight shoes, stress on the foot, or even arthritis. When there is constant stress on the joint, the