Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Diabetic Foot Pain and Ulcers. Skin Sores on Foot. Illustration about Diabetes Symptoms.

What is a Diabetic Foot Ulcer?

It is an open sore or wound that most commonly occurs on the bottom of the patients foot. Some foot ulcers may cause infection and in severe cases even cause a lower extremity amputation.

Research shows that foot ulcers are preventable.

Risk Factors

  • Diabetes
  • Age
  • Race (more commonly seen in Native Americans, Hispanics, and African Americans)
  • Heart Disease
  • Overweight
  • Alcohol and Tobacco use

How do Diabetic Foot Ulcers Form?

  • Lack of feeling/sensation in the foot
  • Poor circulation
  • Foot deformities (bunion or hammertoe)
  • Irritation (friction or pressure)
  • Trauma
  • Nerve damage
  • Elevated blood glucose levels

Preventing Infection of the Ulcer Wound

  • Keep blood glucose levels in control
  • Keep area clean and bandaged
  • Cleanse the wound daily using wound dressing or bandage
  • Avoid barefoot walking

Treatment Options

  • Prevention of infection
  • Taking pressure off of the area “off-loading”
  • Removing dead skin and tissue (debridement of area, when necessary)
  • Application of medication or dressing to the wound
  • Managing blood glucose and other health problems

If you believe that you are at risk of forming an infected wound on your feet or want to have your diabetic ulcer checked call the office at (301) 441 – 2655 to make your next appointment.

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