Foot Ulcers
Ulcers are open sores or wounds that most commonly develop in diabetics and should be treated right away. Ulcers commonly occur in the bottom of the foot.
A person with diabetes and circulation issues should be examining their feet on a daily basis, which should include inspecting the feet for ulcers, cuts, break in the skin and a number of other conditions that can potentially cause a serious problem if neglected.
Some people who develop foot ulcers do not feel pain their feet, which is one of the reasons why it’s so important for a diabetic person to inspect their feet on a daily basis. An appointment with a Podiatrist should be made immediately if a foot ulcer is discovered.
An ulcer that has progressed may show all or some of the following symptoms:
- Drainage
- Odor
- Redness
- Inflammation
- Thickened Tissue
What Causes A Foot Ulcer?
A foot ulcer can be caused by excess pressure or irritation due to poor fitting footwear, a foot deformity, and trauma.
Ulcers are commonly seen in patients living with diabetes, neuropathy or vascular disease. People with the aforementioned conditions are at increased risk of developing infection in the skin and bone from an open wound.
Foot Ulcer Treatment
Ulcers should be treated right away. Not all ulcers are infected, but if an ulcer becomes infected it could develop into a bone or skin infection, gangrene, or an abscess.
A podiatrist will determine the best method of treatment for an ulcer after examining your foot and medical history.
The wound should be cleaned (daily) and bandaged. Antibiotics may be prescribed if the ulcer is infected. Since most ulcers develop on the bottom of the foot, a patient may need to use crutches, diabetic shoes or a brace to take pressure off the bottom of the foot so the wound can heal faster.
Surgery is not a likely method of treatment, unless an ulcer was caused by a foot deformity like hammertoes or bunions. It may be recommended to treat those conditions to prevent the occurrence of ulcers in the future.
Prevention
A person with diabetes should take significant efforts to prevent foot ulcers from developing. Daily foot exams, good hygiene, proper toe nail trimming, and proper fitting footwear can all help to prevent foot ulcers.
Professional Foot Care
If you have a foot ulcer or other foot disorder, schedule an appointment at one of our clinics with a highly experienced, board certified foot doctor. Our foot doctors commonly treat patients with diabetes and other medical conditions that can cause complications when a foot condition is present.
The foot doctors at The Center For Musculoskeletal Disorders provide individualized treatments and educate patients on proper foot care and maintenance.