Facts on Foot Ulcers

Foot ulcers commonly occur on the ball of the foot or the bottom of the big toe. If one experiences ulcers on the sides of the foot, replace shoes as they may not be fitting properly.

Don’t mistake a blister for a foot ulcer. A foot ulcer is an open would whereas a blister is a small pocket of fluid underneath the skin. Foot ulcers affect the foot’s surface and can lead to serious wounds, infections, and possible amputation. It is estimated that 15% of diabetics will experience a foot ulcer at some point in their lives.

Treatment of Foot Ulcers:

• X-Rays of the foot check to make sure there is no infection of the bone
• Podiatrists clean out dead or infected tissue
• Cultures are taken of the tissue to determine type of infection and proper antibiotics

Take Care of the Foot Ulcer:

• Put feet up! Walking makes the ulcer larger, harder to heal, and forces the infection deeper into the foot.
• Protect the foot by special shoes, a brace, or cast.
• Inspect foot daily for any changes.
• Clean feet and legs daily.

Healed Ulcers:

• Keep checking feet daily for any changes.
• Scar tissue that may have formed under the foot ulcer will break down over time.
• Special shoes help to protect and prevent the ulcer from returning.