Diabetes can impact numerous areas of the body, such as the feet. It may cause nerve and blood vessel damage which can make it harder to detect wounds and slow the healing process. So, a tiny hole, a blister or pressure point can become a big diabetic foot wound.

Being aware of the common causes, symptoms and treatment options can help individuals with diabetes keep their feet healthy and get medical help when necessary.

In most cases, foot wounds are the result of the development of diabetic foot.

1. Diabetic Neuropathy

If a person experiences diabetic neuropathy, it can cause nerve damage to the feet and this may reduce the sensation. This may contribute to cuts, blisters, burns or pressure injuries going unnoticed, until they are more serious.

2. Poor Blood Circulation

Diabetes can cause the blood vessels to have issues – which can limit blood flow to the feet. Limited circulation equals less oxygen and less nutrients are supplied to damaged tissue, which may slow down the wound healing process.

3. Foot Injuries

Even if it happens to be slight cuts, blisters, burns or scratches, they may turn out to be ulcers if they are not observed and treated at an earliest. Any type of injury may be more easily missed due to diminished sensation from neuropathy.

4. Poorly Fitting Footwear

Repeated pressure and friction can result from tight and rubbing shoes. This can lead to blisters, sores or skin that is damaged over time.

5. Dry or Cracked Skin

Dry, cracked skin can be a source of bacteria, and can be caused by diabetes. Taking care of your feet will decrease the chances of skin breakdown.

Warning Signs 

Diabetics should inspect their feet for redness, swelling, blisters, cuts, cracks, discoloration or open sores. Other symptoms include drainage, bad smell, warmth, increasing pain or a wound that is not healing.

If there is any significant swelling, pus, fever or signs of infection or any spreading redness, seek medical assistance immediately. A diabetic wound care professional can examine the wound and make a decision of what is the best thing you can do.

Treatment Options for Diabetic Foot Wounds

1. Wound Cleaning and Dressing

Good wound care and wound dressings help to reduce the risk of infection and promotes healing. The type of “dressing” is a function of the wound and condition.

2. Debridement

Debridement is the process of getting rid of dead or damaged tissue in the wound. This can aid in the elimination of unhealthy tissue, and help make healthy tissue.

3. Offloading

Offloading alleviates pressure on the affected body part. Special shoes, braces or other aids may be needed to avoid the occlusion of pressure interfering with healing.

4. Infection Treatment

In the case of a wound infection, the doctor may prescribe a course of treatment which varies according to the type and severity of the infection. Early treatment will help prevent the infection from becoming severe.

5. Vascular Assessment

If there is a suspected lack of circulation, the flow to the foot might be checked. If there is a blood circulation problem, treatment may be a major factor in healing wounds.

6. Advanced Wound Treatments

Chronic or complicated wounds may need treatments other than those used in the treatment of routine wounds. If this is the case, advanced treatments may be appropriate and it becomes a decision for the healthcare provider based on the wound.

7. Preventing Future Foot Wounds

A major aspect of keeping feet healthy when you have diabetes is prevention. Check feet daily, clean and moisturize feet, wear properly sized shoes and never go without shoes. Control blood sugar and regular medical check-ups can also help to take care of overall foot health.

Don’t dismiss a foot injury, no matter how slight it may seem. Assessment can take place early on in the profession to minimize the risk of complications and help heal the profession.

Key Takeaway

Some of the reasons behind diabetic foot wounds include nerve damage, poor circulation, injuries, footwear problems and more. Early identification of the signs and symptoms and prompt treatment will help increase the likelihood of healing. Proper foot care, wearing appropriate shoes, diabetes management and early treatment of foot problems are all critical to preventing serious foot problems.