Foot Ulcers Specialist

What are diabetic foot ulcers?

A diabetic foot ulcer is a sore that develops on the foot as a result of an injury.

If you have an accident or bang your foot, check your foot immediately to inspect the injury. In addition, you should check your feet on a regular basis to make sure that a sore is not forming from your shoes rubbing against your skin. 

Diabetes causes conditions such as neuropathy (nerve damage that causes numbness) and a decrease in blood flow. This means you may not feel a sore and that your body’s natural healing powers are limited by the decreased blood flow.

If you have diabetes, any broken skin can become a diabetic foot ulcer. Prevention and early treatment are important factors with diabetic foot sores to prevent more serious complications.

What are the other types of foot ulcers?

While most people who develop foot ulcers have diabetes, other medical problems can cause foot ulcers, too. Two other types of foot ulcers are: 

Venous ulcers

Venous ulcers are caused by compromised veins. If your vein valves function poorly or not at all, fluids begin to pool down the legs, causing swelling. This leads to increased pressure in the venous system, and eventually ulceration. Venous ulcers usually appear on the ankles.

Arterial ulcers 

Arterial ulcers are caused by poor blood flow to the lower extremities, usually because of a blocked artery. They usually develop on the ankles, heels, toes, or feet, and can become easily infected.

All foot ulcers are serious, so call South Florida Foot & Ankle Centers for prompt, expert care if you notice the symptoms of a foot ulcer.

What are the symptoms of foot ulcers?

The most obvious symptom of foot ulcers is the presence of a sore on your foot. In some cases, you may experience itching, pain, swelling, and skin color changes. Infections can also cause skin that feels warm. 

How are foot ulcers treated?

Early treatment is crucial for optimal healing of foot ulcers. Typical treatments include:

• Antibiotics
• Bandaging your wound
• Moisture-maintaining wound fillers
• Biologically active wound bandages
• Platelet-rich fibrin therapy
• Topical stem cell therapy
• Negative pressure wound therapy
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy 

The best foot ulcer treatment is, of course, prevention. Check your feet regularly, see your podiatrist at least twice a year, and follow your doctor’s instructions for controlling your diabetes.

If you’re suffering from foot ulcers, proper treatment is critical, and the team at South Florida Foot & Ankle Centers can help. Call or book your appointment online today.