Diabetes is a disease where the body cannot manufacture or properly use insulin. The body then is unable to convert sugars and starches into energy, leaving an elevated amount of blood sugar. Too much glucose in the bloodstream can damage the feet, heart, kidney, eyes and nerves.

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Your feet can be affected in two ways. Blood supply may be affected, resulting in slower healing. You may also lose some feeling in your feet due to nerve damage. A person whose nerves are damaged by diabetes may not realize they have minor cuts or blisters, which can lead to ulcers.

A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore or wound that appears on the bottom of the foot and may lead to amputation if not treated quickly. Two complications from diabetes contribute to foot ulcers:

Neuropathy, or nerve damage, reduces the sensation in the extremities. A small cut, bruise or puncture wound may not be noticed and can worsen into a sore.

Poor circulation caused by excess blood sugar can inhibit healing blood flow to the feet.

 

Pain is not a common symptom because of accompanying neuropathy. But you may notice:

• An open sore

• Drainage on socks

• Redness

• Swelling

• Unpleasant odor

 

It’s essential to seek out a podiatrist’s help immediately if you notice an ulcer.

Our goal is healing the ulcer as soon as possible to reduce the chance of an infection. To do this, we will take pressure off the area, remove dead skin and tissue and apply medication and dressing.

Using a brace or specialized castings, wearing special footgear or using crutches or a wheelchair can help reduce pressure and irritation.

Wound management includes keeping the area covered and moist. We will apply topical medication and dressings. We will assess blood circulation levels with non-invasive tests.

We may recommend surgery if other measures to heal the ulcer are not successful. A surgical goal would be to relieve pressure on the affected area.

Complete healing of an ulcer in a patient with diabetes may take weeks or even several months.