A lack of healthy blood flow to the feet can cause foot ulcers. These ulcers are usually found on the soles of the feet, where the skin is subject to every day pressure. Skin breaks down under the weight of the body, and becomes an open sore, that is not felt right away, due to neuropathy and poor circulation. These greatly increase the risk of amputation with up to 80% of amputations attributed to foot ulceration.

Foot ulcers in diabetic patients, usually start with doing something quite routine, like taking an extra long walk, or wearing a new pair of shoes. After a while you may notice a small blister or callus on your foot. Next thing you know, there is an open wound, or ulcer, on or under your foot. These ulcers can cause the skin to wear thin or wear completely away, resulting in a skin ulcer. If the ulcer is severe enough, it can damage nerves in the foot and cause peripheral neuropathy. Although these ulcers are sometimes considered dangerous and can lead to amputation, the key is prevention. Some preventative measures include watching your blood sugar and doing daily foot examinations, to make sure a small blister or callus won't turn into a diabetic foot ulcer.

One way to treat the ulcer is to immediately stop putting pressure on it, sometimes needing the aid of a cast or foot boot. The soft tissue in the foot is unlike other tissue, as it breaks down faster than normal tissue, and can quickly lead to infection. Another way your podiatrist can treat your ulcer is called debridement. This is where the doctor removes unhealthy tissue from the wound. When this bad tissue is removed, the bodies natural instinct kicks in and healing begins. If you suspect your wound may be heading in the direction of a foot ulcer, contact the friendly staff at the Ankle, Foot, and Wound Care center today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Joseph Picciotti for top notch diabetic foot care.