Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections can develop in the foot as a result of minor cuts or abrasions. Typically cleaning the area and keeping it bandaged is enough to avoid infection until the wound heals. Sometimes, however, your body cannot fight off infections, and the following can happen:

• Your foot can expel discharge or pus.
• You can experience tingling or pain in the heel without applying any pressure to the foot.
• The affected area can become red and warm to the touch.
• You can develop a fever.
• The area can swell and be tender and painful.
• The pain may not be alleviated by ice or over-the-counter painkillers.
• The infection can spread to other areas of the foot, such as under the nail.

If you experience any the above symptoms, make an appointment right away to figure out the best way to treat the infection. People with diabetes have a harder time fighting off infections. If you have diabetes and have an abrasion on your foot, it is even more important to keep the area clean and monitor it for changes. 

Image by Jorge Corcuera. Tiritas de Sam #bandaid. (2012). Flickr.