Foot Ulcers Specialist

What are foot ulcers?

Foot ulcers are a common side-effect of poorly controlled diabetes. If your blood sugar levels are too high for an extended period of time, it causes your skin tissue to break down and deteriorate, exposing the layers underneath.

If you develop a foot ulcer, you’re also more likely to experience complications such as infection. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent foot ulcers. If you have diabetes, one of the easiest ways to lower your risk of a foot ulcer is to inspect and wash your feet on a daily basis. 

What are the symptoms of a foot ulcer?

The symptoms of foot ulcers depend on their location, underlying cause, and severity. However, one of the first symptoms you might experience is drainage from the wound that stains your socks or the inside of your shoe. 

In the early stages of a foot ulcer, it’s also common to experience swelling, irritation, and unusual odors. As your foot ulcer gets worse, you might notice that your skin surrounding the ulcer turns black. 

Without the diagnosis and treatment of a qualified foot and ankle specialist, you might also develop gangrene, which causes tissue death and infection. As your foot ulcer progresses, you might also experience numbness, pain, and the inability to put weight on the affected foot. 

What causes diabetic foot ulcers?

Diabetic foot ulcers occur for a variety of reasons, including:

• Poor circulation
• Nerve damage
• Wounded feet
• High blood sugar

You might also develop foot ulcers as a result of poor circulation. If your feet don’t receive adequate blood flow, your ulcers may heal slowly or become infected. 

How do you diagnose diabetic foot ulcers?

To diagnose diabetic foot ulcers, your Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists provider reviews your medical history, physically examines your feet and toes, and asks questions about the symptoms you’re experiencing. If necessary, they might also order diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound. 

How do you treat diabetic foot ulcers?

Treatment of diabetic foot ulcers depends on the severity and location of the ulcer. Whenever possible, the team at Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists uses conservative, noninvasive measures of care including diabetic shoes, foot braces, compression wraps, and shoe inserts. 

If these treatments don’t ease your symptoms or improve your quality of life, your doctor might recommend prescription antibiotics or anti-clotting medications. If your foot ulcer is severe or it becomes infected, surgical intervention such as debridement and cleaning may be necessary. 

To determine the best type of treatment for your diabetic foot ulcers, make an appointment at Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists, PLLC today. Call the office nearest you or click the online booking tool.