Living in the mountains has its perks, but also its challenges. If you have diabetes, one challenge you can’t afford to overlook is taking care of your feet.
For most people, a blister or cut is no big deal. You clean it, cover it, and it heals. But if you have diabetes or peripheral neuropathy, your body may not heal as well, especially in your feet. What looks like a small sore can turn into a serious problem if it’s not treated quickly.
What is a diabetes-related foot ulcer?
A diabetes-related foot ulcer is an open sore that doesn’t heal properly. It often appears on the bottom of the foot, but can happen anywhere the skin breaks. Even a small injury, like a cut, blister, or callus, can lead to an ulcer.
Once you’ve had one, your risk of developing another goes up.
Why is this more common with diabetes?
Diabetes can cause two major problems:
- Poor circulation, which slows healing
- Nerve damage, or neuropathy, which reduces or removes pain and affects circulation
That means you might not even feel an injury — and if it goes unnoticed, it can become infected or lead to serious complications.
Why are foot ulcers dangerous?
Diabetic foot ulcers can take weeks or months to heal. If infection spreads, surgery may be needed to remove damaged tissue. In some cases, amputation is necessary.
Early treatment can prevent most of these complications.
What should I do if I see a sore on my foot?
Don’t wait. Even if it seems minor, get it checked out. Barton’s Wound Care team can evaluate your foot and create a personalized treatment plan. This may include:
- Special dressings
- Pressure-relieving footwear
- Advanced healing therapies
Living in a rural area makes prevention even more important. Check your feet daily. If you see anything unusual, like redness, swelling, or a sore, get help quickly. Your mobility depends on it.
Dr. Paul Ryan is an orthopedic surgeon and wound care specialist at Barton Health. Call Barton Wound Center at 530.543.5479 to make an appointment or visit BartonHealth.org for more information. And join Dr. Ryan for a free webinar, “Foot Care: From Injury to Infection,” on Thursday, November 13 from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.; details at BartonHealth.org/Lecture.
