Diabetic Ulcers


A diabetic ulcer is a breakdown of the skin tissue on an area of the foot. An ulcer can develop quickly and may be painful and difficult to heal. Infection is a common complication. It may be necessary is important to have an X-ray to determine whether there is any bone involvement when an ulcer is present.

Causes of Diabetic Ulcers

Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus
Vascular insufficiency
Lack of sensation
Chronic irritation from ill-fitting shoes
Trauma

What can you do?

Consult a podiatrist immediately.
Alert the doctor’s office that you are a diabetic with a foot sore.
Self-treatment is not recommended for this serious condition.

What can a Podiatrist do?

Perform a physical examination.
Request an X-ray, bone scan, CT, MRI or other imaging studies.
Perform debridement and wound care.
Recommend laboratory tests to G.P.
Initiate total medical team approach, which may include your family practice doctor, endocrinologist, internist, vascular surgeon, and infectious disease specialist.

Source: British Columbia Association of Podiatrist – http://www.foothealth.ca/ Retrieved: 2009-06-01
Image Source: Wikipedia – Diabetic foot ulcer – http://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diabetic_foot_ulcer Retrieved: 2018-02-01