Foot Ulcers

What are foot ulcers?

Foot ulcers are common in people with diabetes. That’s because diabetes limits the blood flow to your feet and damages the nerves. 

As a result, it’s easier for the tissue in your feet to break down, especially in areas under regular pressure. That’s why foot ulcers are most common under your big toe or the ball of your foot. 

Diabetic foot ulcers are marked by swelling, irritation, and redness at the ulcer site. The ulcer itself might emit a fluid that you notice on your socks or shoes. It can also emit an odor. 

The problem is that many of these signs don’t become apparent until your ulcer is already infected. In fact, many people don’t notice their ulcer until it’s developed an eschar, or an area of black, dead tissue, around it. 

If you have diabetes, it’s important that you check your feet every day. Look for the development of any part of your foot that’s red, hot to the touch, or swollen. 

These signs mean it’s worth showing the area to your North Star Foot & Ankle Associates podiatrist, even if you’re not experiencing any pain. That’s because diabetes can cause neuropathy, or nerve damage that numbs the area. 

How are foot ulcers diagnosed?

Not all foot ulcers are the same. North Star Foot & Ankle Associates uses a grading system to diagnose your ulcer’s severity. The system has four stages:

1. You don’t have an ulcer yet but your foot is at risk for developing one
2. You have an ulcer but it’s not infected
3. You have an ulcer that has exposed your tendons or joints
4. Your ulcer is very severe and has caused an abscess in your foot

Once the team has accurately diagnosed the stage of your ulcer, they can create a treatment program to help the ulcer fully heal and to protect your overall foot health. If left untreated, ulcers can severely damage your feet and even be a cause for amputation. 

How are foot ulcers treated?

Your treatment will be tailored to the stage of your foot ulcer. It might include simple steps like regular foot baths or frequent dressing changes to keep your ulcer clean and dry. It might be more involved, with regular enzyme or disinfecting treatments or surgical intervention. 

The team at North Star Foot & Ankle Associates is dedicated to providing the care you need to keep your feet health. Call them or book your appointment online.