It can occur in people who have pop in 1 diabetes but is more common withtype 2 diabetes.
Diabetes can also cause wounds not to heal well.
These factors can lead to the development of foot ulcers in people with diabetes.
Verywell / Dennis Madamba
Verywell / Dennis Madamba
Why Do Diabetic Ulcers Form?
Diabetes can cause damage to blood vessels, including the tiny blood vessels that supply the leg nerves.
Some people experience tingling, pain, or numbness, while others have no symptoms.
Reproduced with permission from ©DermNetwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Nerve damage can cause a loss of pain, heat, or cold sensation.
This can hinder wound healing.
Ill-fitting shoes can also cause ulcers on the side of the foot.
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This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.
Reproduced with permission from DermNetwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
The neuropathic and vascular status of the foot should also be assessed.
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PEDIS
PEDIS Grade 1:
PEDIS Grade 2:
Reproduced with permission from DermNet and Dr. Richard Ashtonwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Checking feet your every day increases the likelihood you will catch problems early.
Early treatment decreases the chances of serious complications.
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A healthcare provider should perform treatment for foot ulcers.
Gangrene can be life-threatening if untreated.
Signs a Diabetic Ulcer Is Healing
A healing ulcer closes back over.
Walking on it can enlarge it and force your infection deeper into the foot.
Foot ulcers from diabetes are treated with debridement, wound dressing, andantibiotics.
More extensive damage may require surgery to remove dead tissue and/or procedures to promote healing.
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2020;49(5):250-255. doi:10.31128/ajgp-11-19-5161
Grennan D.Diabetic foot ulcers.JAMA.
2019;321(1):114-114. doi:10.1001/jama.2018.18323
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Diabetes and your feet.
MedlinePlus.Diabetes taking care of your feet.
2022;52:101909. doi:10.1016/j.foot.2022.101909
UpToDate.Patient education: foot care for people with diabetes (beyond the basics).
American Diabetes Association.Foot complications.
