A Diabetic foot ulcer is where an area of skin has broken down and you can see the underlying tissue. Most skin ulcers occur on the lower legs and feet as a result of these areas being subject to weight bearing, these include
In Diabetic people, or those with poor circulation, the skin on the feet does not heal as quickly and is prone to develop ulcers. The reduced blood flow to the foot results is slow healing and low sensitivity. As a result, diabetic foot ulcers are responsible for more hospitalizations than any other complication associated with Diabetes.
Foot ulcers are caused by a range of problems but are not limited to poor fitting shoes, nerve damage, poor circulation , damage to the foot and infections.
When you wear poor fitting shoes you may get red spots, sore points, blisters, and even pain associated with wearing shoes. This is because shoes may rub and cause friction or be too tight and constrictive on the foot. Common foot abnormalities such as flat feet, bunions or hammer toes also cause diabetic foot ulcers from the pressure and friction associated with shoes that fit incorrectly.
People with long-standing or poorly controlled Diabetes are at risk for having damage to the nerves in their feet. The medical term for this is peripheral neuropathy.
Because of the nerve damage, a person may be unable to feel their feet normally. Also, they may be unable to sense the position of their feet and toes while walking and balancing. With normal nerves, a person can usually sense if their shoes are rubbing on the feet or if one part of the foot is becoming strained while walking.
A person with Diabetes may not properly sense minor injuries (such as cuts, scrapes, blisters), signs of abnormal wear and tear (that turn into calluses and corns), and foot strain. Normally, people can feel if there is a stone in their shoe, then remove it immediately. A person who has diabetes may not be able to perceive a stone. Its constant rubbing can easily create a sore.
Especially when poorly controlled, Diabetes can lead to accelerated hardening of the arteries or atherosclerosis. When blood flow to injured tissues is poor, healing does not occur properly.
Any trauma to the foot can increase the risk for a more serious problem to develop.
It is not unusual for patients to have Diabetic foot ulcers for some time before presenting to doctors because they are frequently painless and therefore unaware that they. Symptoms of Diabetic ulcers include but are not limited to:
People suffering from Diabetes should look for cuts, scratches, bruises and sores on the foot, changes to the toenail. Use a mirror if you cannot see under the foot. Tissue around the ulcer may become black due to the lack of healthy blood flow to the foot. In severe cases partial or complete gangrene may occur.
If you do notice any cuts, corns or callus (callus can cover an ulcer making it harder to detect) on your feet have them checked out by a podiatrist. A medical pedicure is the best and safest way to have your feet assessed and treated to prevent any further problems.
In the most serious of cases, if left the ulcers are untreated the ulcer will become infected and the surrounding skin will die causing gangrene from lack of circulation. This can lead to amputation.
The primary goal in the treatment of Diabetic foot ulcers, is to get the wounds healing as soon as possible. The faster the healing takes place the less chance there is of infection. There are several key factors in the appropriate treatment of a diabetic foot ulcer:
Not all ulcers are infected; however if you are diagnosed with an infection, a treatment program of antibiotics, wound care, and possibly hospitalization will be necessary.
When something does go wrong, see a Podiatrist immediately. Waiting a “few days to see what happens” before seeing someone may be the difference between a good and poor outcome. The sooner treatment is started the faster the healing can begin. Please avoid home treatments as these often make conditions worse.
At Medical Pedicure we have qualified Podiatrists that are able to provide you with the appropriate treatment and work with you on the prevention of further complications.
At Medical Pedicure we offer a complete Diabetic Foot Assessment and Treatment Service. Click here for more information on or to book online.
At Medical Pedicure, we’re here to revolutionize foot care and prioritize your safety. Run by Qualified Podiatrists our expert team of podiatrists understands feet inside and out. With their extensive knowledge, you’ll receive the best advice and treatments for all your foot-related concerns.
