Care for Foot and Ankle Ulcers

What You Need To Know

Understanding ulcers, why they form, and why prompt care matters.

Foot and Ankle Ulcer Care

An ulcer is a sore in the skin that may go all the way to the bone. Because of poor circulation and neuropathy in the feet, cuts or blisters can easily turn into ulcers that become infected and will not heal. This is a common, and serious, complication of diabetes and can lead to a loss of the foot, leg or one’s life.

People living with diabetes are prone to having foot problems, often because of two complications of diabetes: nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation. Neuropathy causes loss of feeling in your feet, taking away your ability to feel pain and discomfort, so you may not detect an injury or irritation. Poor circulation in your feet reduces your ability to heal, making it hard for even a tiny cut to resist infection.

Having diabetes increases the risk of developing a wide range of foot problems. Small foot problems can turn into serious complications, which is why early recognition is so important. Warning signs include cuts, scrapes, redness, drainage, swelling, bad odor, rash, discoloration, or a foot that has changed in size, shape, or direction.

Do not ignore leg pain. Pain in the leg that occurs at night or with a little activity could mean you have a blocked artery. These issues can worsen very quickly, so seek care immediately if you notice a wound that will not heal or any of the warning signs above. Our team at Nevada Foot and Ankle will evaluate your circulation, sensation, and the wound itself to build a treatment plan focused on healing and limb preservation.

Preventing Ulcers and Protecting Your Feet

You play a vital role in reducing complications. Inspect your feet daily, and if your eyesight is poor, have someone else do it for you. Look for cuts, scrapes, redness, drainage, swelling, bad odor, rash, discoloration, loss of hair on toes, injuries, or nail changes such as deformed, striped, yellowed, thickened, or not growing nails. If your foot is swollen, red, or hot, or has changed in size, shape, or direction, see your doctor immediately.

Managing diabetes by controlling blood glucose, especially hemoglobin A1C, is the primary focus to avoid developing complications. Your podiatrist works together with your other healthcare providers to help wounds heal and prevent infection or amputation. Many surgical techniques are available to save feet and legs, including joint reconstruction and wound healing technologies.

A few practical habits protect your feet every day. If you have ingrown nail problems, hard or thickened nails, or reduced feeling in your feet, your toenails should be properly trimmed by a professional. Never trim calluses or corns yourself, and do not use over-the-counter medicated pads. Keep floors free of sharp objects such as needles or insulin syringes.

Do not go barefoot. Wear shoes indoors and outdoors, shake them out before putting them on, and make sure your socks are not bunched up. Have your circulation and sense of feeling tested regularly so small problems are caught early. With consistent daily habits and regular checkups with our team, most ulcers can be prevented or treated in time to protect the foot and limb.