Diabetic foot ulcerations are a serious and potentially life-threatening complication for people living with diabetes. These wounds often develop quietly due to nerve damage or poor circulation, making them difficult to notice early and highly susceptible to infection. When left untreated, diabetic foot ulcers can escalate quickly, resulting in loss of limb or even life. We now offer these services at our Washington DC office
What Is a Diabetic Foot Ulcer?
A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore most often found on the bottom of the foot or toe. Diabetes can damage nerves and blood vessels, causing poor sensation and slower healing. For many patients, small injuries go unnoticed, and wounds do not heal as they should, raising the risk of infection
Why Are Ulcers Dangerous?
- High infection risk: Diabetes weakens immune function. Ulcers are easy targets for bacteria, making serious infections likely and sometimes spreading to bones or the bloodstream.
- Amputation risk: Over 80% of diabetes-related foot amputations begin with an untreated ulcer. When tissue dies from an advancing infection, amputation may become the only option.
- Impact on overall health: The likelihood of surviving five years after a major diabetic foot problem is lower than the average for some cancer diagnoses. Complications are often severe and long-lasting.
What Happens Without Treatment?
- Ulcers enlarge and deepen, increasing infection risk
- Advanced infections can result in sepsis, hospitalization, and even major surgery
- Without prompt care, limb loss or death becomes a real possibility, especially for those with other health problems.
Protecting Your Feet
- Examine feet daily for changes, cuts, or wounds—even if there’s no pain
- Don’t hesitate to ask WeTreatFeet Podiatry for regular foot exams; early detection is key to preventing complications
- Keep blood sugar well controlled and follow medical advice to slow or prevent ulcer development.
- Wear well-fitted footwear and avoid walking barefoot
- Call immediately for any new ulcer, sore spot, or skin change.
Early treatment saves limbs and lives. When in doubt, reach out to WeTreatFeet Podiatry for prompt care and expert guidance
Did you know that WeTreatFeet does diabetic shoes?
At WeTreatFeet Podiatry, patients with diabetes can access specialized diabetic shoe fitting services designed to provide essential support and protection for vulnerable feet. Custom-molded diabetic shoes and inserts are clinically proven to reduce the risk of foot ulcers, amputation, and other serious complications associated with diabetes. The team uses advanced digital scanning and gait analysis technologies to ensure each patient receives therapeutic footwear tailored to their unique needs, helping maintain mobility and preserve limb health
Frequently Asked Questions About Diabetic Foot Ulcers
What causes diabetic foot ulcers?
Diabetic foot ulcers develop when high blood sugar levels damage nerves and blood vessels, leading to poor circulation and loss of sensation in the feet. This makes minor injuries more likely to become serious wounds that don’t heal properly.
How can I tell if I have a diabetic foot ulcer?
Common signs include an open sore or wound on the foot, redness, swelling, drainage, or a foul odor. Some people may not feel pain due to neuropathy, so regular foot checks are essential.
Are diabetic foot ulcers serious?
Yes. Without prompt treatment, these ulcers can lead to severe infections, gangrene, or even amputation. Early detection and medical evaluation are critical for preventing complications.
How are diabetic foot ulcers treated?
Treatment focuses on controlling infection, removing dead tissue, improving circulation, and keeping pressure off the affected area. A podiatrist may use wound dressings, antibiotics, specialized footwear, or surgical procedures depending on severity.
Can diabetic foot ulcers be prevented?
Most ulcers are preventable with proper foot care. Patients should inspect their feet daily, wear well-fitting shoes, control blood glucose levels, and see a podiatrist regularly for preventive care.
When should I see a doctor for a foot ulcer?
See a podiatrist or wound care specialist immediately if you notice any non-healing sore, swelling, or drainage on your foot. Early evaluation significantly improves healing outcomes.
