Let’s be honest, ulcer isn’t exactly a comforting word. And if you’re living with diabetes, it’s one you’d probably prefer not to hear at all. But here’s the thing: diabetic foot ulcers are more common than most people realize. They’re serious, yes, but also highly treatable, especially if you catch them early.
The tricky part? They often sneak up without causing much pain, thanks to neuropathy of the foot — that nerve damage from high blood sugar that dulls sensation and makes problems harder to feel.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through what causes diabetic foot ulcers, how to spot them early, and what real, effective treatment for diabetic ulcers on the foot looks like, so that way you can seek care before things get serious.
Why Diabetic Foot Ulcers Happen
Small injuries can turn into big problems when you’re dealing with diabetes. That’s because diabetes affects blood flow and nerve function, making it harder to notice wounds and slower for your body to heal them.
How Diabetes Affects Foot Health
Over time, high blood sugar can lead to neuropathy of the foot, which reduces feeling in your feet. You might not notice a cut, blister, or pressure point from a tight shoe. Add in poor circulation, and your foot’s natural healing ability is weakened. That’s a dangerous combo.
These unnoticed wounds, especially in high-pressure areas like the heel, ball of the foot, or toes, can quickly develop into a diabetic foot ulcer.
Common Triggers and Risk Factors
- Older adults with diabetes often have more advanced neuropathy and less flexibility, making foot care harder.
- Ill-fitting shoes can rub or apply uneven pressure.
- Poor foot hygiene or walking barefoot increases the chance of unnoticed injuries.
Recognizing Diabetic Foot Ulcers Early
Spotting a diabetic foot ulcer early can be the difference between a simple fix and serious complications. The challenge? Symptoms are often subtle, especially when neuropathy dulls the pain.
Diabetic foot ulcer symptoms to watch for include:
- Open sores, especially on the bottom of the foot
- Redness, swelling, or drainage (pus or blood)
- Foul odor from the wound
- Thickened or callused skin around the sore
- Changes in foot color, warmth, or texture
- Fever or chills (signs of infection)
Wondering what a diabetic foot ulcer looks like? It’s usually round, shallow or deep, and may appear as a crater with discolored or dead tissue. If you’re unsure, have it checked. The signs are easy to miss, especially with neuropathy of the foot.
Treatment for Diabetic Foot Ulcers
If you’re dealing with a foot ulcer, your first question is likely: How do I fix this? The right care at the right time can save your foot, and quite possibly your life.
At-Home First Steps
Start by gently cleaning the wound with mild soap and water; avoid harsh solutions like hydrogen peroxide, which can delay healing. Keep the area covered with a sterile dressing to protect it from bacteria and irritation.
It’s critical to offload pressure from the ulcer. That means avoiding walking on the sore, using a brace or special footwear, and resting as much as possible.
Unfortunately, diabetic wounds rarely heal on their own, so it’s smart to check in with a foot specialist early, just to be safe (and to heal faster).
Professional Diabetic Foot Ulcer Treatment Options
If at-home care isn’t working or signs of infection appear, seek help immediately. Here’s what diabetic foot ulcer treatment may involve:
- Debridement: Carefully removing dead skin or tissue to help the ulcer heal.
- Infection control: Antibiotics, either topical or oral, are prescribed to fight off infections.
- Offloading devices: Custom shoes, padded socks, braces, or even crutches to take pressure off the wound.
Advanced cases may require specialized wound care, imaging, or even surgery. A podiatrist will create a custom treatment plan for diabetic ulcers on the foot, based on the severity and location of your ulcer, as well as your overall health.
When to See a Specialist
If your wound:
- Isn’t improving within a few days
- Is getting larger, redder, or more painful
- Shows signs of infection (pus, smell, fever)
Don’t wait. These signs mean it’s time for professional care. The sooner you act, the greater your chance of healing without long-term complications.
Don’t Wait to Treat Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Diabetic foot ulcers can start small, but if ignored, they can spiral into major medical issues like infection or even amputation. The good news? With early attention and the right care, they’re treatable and often preventable.
If you notice any of the symptoms we’ve covered, or if you’re not sure what’s going on with your foot, don’t take chances. Treatment is most effective when started early.
Schedule an appointment with Foot and Ankle Group today to get expert care for diabetic foot ulcers and personalized support for long-term foot health.
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