Diabetic Ulcers
People with diabetes are at high risk of developing foot ulcers that require ongoing medical oversight and intervention to heal correctly. Without adequate treatment, diabetic foot ulcers can lead to severe infection, sepsis, and even amputation of your foot or leg.
For state-of-the-art wound care services from experts in the industry, schedule an appointment with one of six Starrett Podiatry clinics in the greater New York area including East Harlem and West Harlem in New York City; Brooklyn, New York; and Mott Haven and Belmont in Bronx, New York.
What is a diabetic ulcer?
A diabetic ulcer is a wound on your foot that begins as a cut or minor injury but fails to heal because of the way diabetes inhibits blood flow and healing.
The main sign of a diabetic ulcer is a wound that doesn’t heal. You might experience pain or soreness associated with a diabetic ulcer.
What causes diabetic ulcers?
Anything can cause a diabetic ulcer: too much pressure in the same place for a long time, a nick that occurs while clipping your toenails, a cut, a scrape, or other minor injuries.
Because very insignificant events can lead to a diabetic ulcer, people with diabetes must be very diligent about protecting their feet from injuries. Wearing comfortable, protective shoes all the time is very important for patients with diabetes.
What are the risks of diabetic foot ulcers?
Diabetic foot ulcers can quickly become gangrenous, leading to the death of the tissue around the wound. Ulcers are the leading cause of amputation in diabetics.
If you have diabetes, your primary care doctor should perform routine foot exams with your shoes and socks off, and you should schedule a podiatry appointment if they identify a wound.
Who treats diabetic foot ulcers?
The treatment of diabetic foot ulcers requires specialized knowledge and equipment,
so it’s recommended that you include a podiatrist in your care team.
Podiatrists receive extensive training and education in the treatment of even the most complex foot conditions, making them well-versed in the diagnosis and treatment of non-healing wounds like diabetic foot ulcers.
How are diabetic foot ulcers treated?
The treatment of diabetic foot ulcers requires a multifaceted approach focused on:
- Preventing an infection from occurring
- Removing pressure from the affected area
- Clearing the wound of dead tissue and skin, which is called debridement
- Medicating and dressing the wound
- Managing overall health and keeping blood sugars within control
What are the risks of diabetic foot ulcers?
Diabetic foot ulcers are the leading cause of amputation in diabetics. The sooner you receive treatment, the better your chance of healing without complication.