Non-Healing Diabetic Wounds
Foot ulcers and non-healing wounds are common issues for people with uncontrolled diabetes. Good foot care is important for anyone with diabetes because uncontrolled blood sugar levels can damage the nerves and blood vessels in hands and feet. As a result, you may lose the feeling in your feet, which means you might not notice or feel injuries.
Cuts and sores can then develop and become infected and are often difficult to heal. A wound that won’t heal can lead to a serious infection or gangrene, which can require amputation of toes or even the foot.
Diabetic foot ulcers and non-healing wounds are most commonly caused by:
- High blood sugar
- Irritated or wounded feet
- Nerve damage
- Poor circulation
Symptoms, Diagnosis and Outlook
Regular foot care is crucial to preventing foot ulcers or finding them early when they are most treatable. Symptoms of foot ulcers, include:
- Drainage from foot that stains socks of shoe.
- Odor
- Redness
- Skin irritation
- Swelling
If your foot ulcer is caught early, it is usually treatable. The longer you wait to seek treatment, the more risk you have of developing an infection. Untreatable infections can lead to amputation of the toes or foot. Once an ulcer has healed, preventive foot care reduces the risk of an ulcer returning.
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Penn State Health includes the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, ranked as one of the best orthopaedic providers in the country by U.S. News & World Report. This honor was earned because our doctors consistently deliver exceptional patient care and outcomes through advanced treatments, translational research and provider training.
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Penn State Health podiatrists are board-certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery, American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery and American Board of Medical Specialties in Podiatry.
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