Diabetic Foot Ulcer Treatment

Common types of diabetic foot ulcers

A wound specialist can assess what may be contributing to an ulcer. Common forms include:

• Neuropathic ulcers: Often linked to reduced sensation and repeated pressure or rubbing. They may develop on the bottom of the foot and can be painless.

• Ischemic ulcers: Related to reduced blood flow. They may occur on the toes or edges of the foot and can be painful.

• Neuroischemic ulcers: Occur when reduced sensation and poor circulation are both factors.

Ulcers can also appear on the ball of the foot, the bottom of the big toe, the heel, or where footwear puts pressure on the skin. Only a professional evaluation can determine the type and what care is appropriate.

What treatment may involve

Diabetic foot ulcer treatment depends on the wound and the factors affecting healing. A specialist may assess the ulcer’s size, depth, location, signs of infection, and the circulation and sensation in your foot. Your care plan may include:

• Professional wound cleaning and dressing care

• Removing unhealthy tissue when clinically appropriate

• Reducing pressure on the wound with a recommended device, footwear, or other approach

• Assessing for infection or circulation problems and coordinating additional care when needed

• Guidance for managing diabetes and caring for your feet between visits

Treatment is individualized; not every option is appropriate for every wound. Pressure relief and timely treatment of infection are important parts of professional care.

What to do at home while arranging care

Home care can help protect your foot while you contact a healthcare professional, but it does not replace an evaluation.

• Gently cover the sore with a clean bandage.

• Keep pressure off the area as much as possible. Ask the clinician what is safe for you.

• Check your foot daily, including between your toes. A sore may not hurt if sensation is reduced.

• Follow your diabetes care plan and take medications as prescribed.

• Don’t soak the foot, walk barefoot, or cut, shave, or pick at the sore or surrounding callus.

• Avoid applying treatments unless a healthcare professional recommends them.

Don’t wait for pain to make an appointment

Diabetic foot ulcers can be painless. Without appropriate care, a wound may become infected, extend deeper, or contribute to tissue damage. Severe complications can sometimes lead to gangrene or amputation. Early professional assessment can help identify problems and guide the next steps.

Call promptly if you have a sore or wound. Seek urgent medical care for rapidly worsening symptoms, spreading redness or swelling, fever, or dark/black tissue.

Call (951) 381-2122 or request an evaluation online.

Need to get your foot evaluated?

If you have diabetes and a foot wound that is open, worsening, or not healing, contact a wound care professional. The team at San Gorgonio Wound Care Center can evaluate the wound and discuss appropriate care.