Diabetics face many health challenges, and among them is the risk of developing foot ulcers.
"Foot ulcers can be painful and can lead to further infections and even limb amputation if they are not monitored or treated correctly," said Marcus M. Riedhammer, M.D., Certified Wound Specialist, Geisinger Medical Center. "Diabetes can cause nerve damage, which lessens a diabetic's ability to feel when an injury develops, and it can adversely affect circulation and the body's ability to help wounds heal or fight off infection. Because of these issues, diabetics are particularly susceptible to developing foot ulcers."
Foot ulcers are open sores that usually develop on the ball of the foot or bottom of the big toe. They occur when repeated pressure is applied to an area of the foot, and are characterized by red, crater-shaped wounds that can range from a shallow crater only involving the surface skin to holes that reach as far as the bone.
"Foot ulcers are often uncomfortable, but diabetics may not feel them as they develop or know that they have one at all," Dr. Riedhammer said. "This can be especially dangerous because it can lead to a variety of infections and other complications. An infection acquired through an open wound can spread quickly, become an abscess and lead to gangrene and other harmful medical complications, which may necessitate amputating a toe, foot or part of the lower leg."
Prevention is easy, Dr. Riedhammer said. By checking and washing feet daily and wearing shoes that fit correctly, most patients can avoid developing these ulcers. Meeting with a podiatrist can help patients understand their risk for developing ulcers as well, he said.