wound & ulcer care

Won't I know it when I have a cut or wound on one or both of my feet ?
Not always. Those with diabetes can often experience what is called "diabetic neuropathy" -- a numbness or lack of sensation of the lower legs and feet. Neuropathy can often make the beginning stages of diabetic ulcers difficult to feel. This is why it is important to have a physician check both feet at routine exams, and to have yourself or a family member check your feet daily for signs and symptoms.

What are the warning signs?
As neuropathy makes it difficult to feel sensation in the limbs, waiting for pain in the feet to detect ulcers is usually not an option for those with diabetes. Chief warning signs to look for include irritation, redness, cracked and dry skin (especially around the heels), and drainage on socks. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should be evaluated by a medical professional.

Where do diabetic ulcers most often occur?
Typically, diabetic foot ulcers occur at points of increased pressure, such as the ball of the foot or the bottom of the big toe. However, ulcers can appear anywhere on the foot or ankle.

I have heard of the term "diabetic hotspot." What is that?
Diabetic hotspots are specific areas of the foot in individuals with diabetes, which have increased skin temperatures compared to the rest of the foot, usually due to increased pressure. These temperature differences have been shown to help healthcare providers predict where a diabetic ulcer will present before it actually does.

If I discover what I think is a diabetic ulcer, is it too late to save my lower limb?
No; if discovered early and treated by a podiatrist or primary care physician, many ulcers can be successfully healed without resorting to amputation. Additionally, several new technologies used today may increase the healing rate of diabetic wounds. One such technology used by Associated Podiatrists is Dermagraft™, an advanced wound care product has successfully healed wounds in more than 50,000 patients. Contact us for more information or to make an appointment.

What is a diabetic ulcer? Diabetic ulcerations are often one of the first signs of complications from diabetes in the lower leg. These ulcers (or sores) can stem from a small wound or cut on the foot that is slow to heal. If left untreated, ulcers can grow larger and become harder to successfully treat. Often, ulcers can become infected, and can lead to partial or full amputation of the foot or lower leg.