For people living with diabetes, maintaining good foot health is essential — not just for comfort, but for overall well-being. One of the most serious complications of diabetes is the development of foot ulcers, which are open sores or wounds that can form due to poor circulation, nerve damage, or pressure points. Left untreated, these ulcers can lead to infection, hospitalization, and even amputation.
The good news? As our friends from Dynamic Foot and Ankle Center discuss below, most diabetic foot ulcers are entirely preventable with consistent care, proper footwear, and regular monitoring. Understanding how they develop — and taking proactive steps to avoid them — can help you stay active, independent, and healthy.
Understanding Diabetic Foot Ulcers
A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore that usually appears on the bottom of the foot, around the toes, or on pressure points such as the ball or heel. These ulcers occur when a combination of nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation prevents the foot from healing properly after even a minor injury.
Because nerve damage reduces sensation, a person with diabetes may not feel small cuts, blisters, or pressure spots. At the same time, decreased blood flow slows healing, allowing even minor wounds to worsen quickly.
If an ulcer becomes infected, it can spread to deeper tissues or bones — a serious condition that may require medical treatment or, in severe cases, amputation.
Who Is At Risk Of Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Anyone with diabetes is at risk of developing a foot ulcer, but certain factors increase that risk:
- Poorly controlled blood sugar
- Peripheral neuropathy (loss of sensation)
- Poor circulation (peripheral arterial disease)
- History of foot ulcers or amputation
- Foot deformities such as hammertoes or bunions
- Wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes
- Smoking, which further reduces blood flow
If you have one or more of these risk factors, extra care and regular checkups are essential.
Early Warning Signs To Watch For
Foot ulcers don’t always start with pain — in fact, pain may be absent due to nerve damage. That’s why regular inspection is so important. Watch for:
- Red spots, blisters, or sores
- Drainage on socks or shoes
- Thickened calluses or skin discoloration
- Swelling, warmth, or odor
- Changes in foot shape or arch collapse
If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait — see your podiatrist or healthcare provider immediately. Early treatment can stop a small issue from becoming a serious infection.
Top Tips For Preventing Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Preventing ulcers starts with daily care and proactive habits. Here are key steps every person with diabetes should follow:
- Inspect Your Feet Daily
Check your feet from top to bottom — including between the toes and the soles — for any cuts, blisters, or color changes. Use a mirror if needed or ask a family member for help.
- Wash and Moisturize
Clean your feet daily with mild soap and warm (not hot) water. Dry thoroughly, especially between the toes. Apply lotion to prevent cracks, but avoid putting it between the toes where moisture can cause infection.
- Keep Blood Sugar Levels Under Control
High blood sugar damages nerves and blood vessels, increasing the risk of ulcers. Work with your healthcare team to monitor and manage your glucose levels through diet, medication, and exercise.
- Choose Proper Footwear
Wear shoes that fit comfortably — not too tight or too loose — and that provide cushioning and protection. Avoid walking barefoot, even indoors. Diabetic shoes or orthotic inserts can help redistribute pressure and prevent friction.
- Trim Toenails Safely
Cut nails straight across and avoid trimming too short or rounding the edges, which can cause ingrown toenails. If you have poor vision, thick nails, or limited flexibility, let a podiatrist handle nail care.
- Avoid Smoking
Smoking reduces circulation, slows healing, and raises the risk of infection. Quitting is one of the best things you can do for your vascular and foot health.
- Protect Your Feet From Temperature Extremes
Always test bath water with your hand or elbow before soaking your feet. Neuropathy can reduce sensation, making it easy to accidentally burn your skin. In cold weather, keep feet warm and dry with insulated socks.
- Keep Calluses and Corns Managed
Don’t try to cut or remove calluses yourself. A podiatrist can safely smooth them down to prevent pressure points that can lead to ulcers.
- Exercise Regularly
Gentle activities like walking or swimming help improve blood flow and maintain joint flexibility. Always wear proper shoes and check your feet afterward.
- Schedule Regular Foot Exams
See your podiatrist at least once a year — or more often if you have neuropathy or circulation issues. Routine exams can catch early signs of trouble before they become serious.
The Role Of Professional Care
Your podiatrist is a key partner in preventing diabetic foot ulcers. They can provide:
- Comprehensive foot exams to identify risk areas
- Custom orthotics or diabetic shoes to reduce friction and pressure
- Wound care if you already have an ulcer
- Education on self-care and early warning signs
If an ulcer does develop, early intervention from a foot specialist is critical. Modern treatments — including debridement (removal of dead tissue), offloading devices, and advanced dressings — can help ulcers heal and prevent recurrence.
When To Seek Immediate Help
Contact your healthcare provider or podiatrist right away if you notice:
- Open sores or blisters that don’t heal within a few days
- Increased redness, swelling, or warmth around a wound
- Pus or unusual drainage
- Blackened or discolored skin (a sign of poor blood flow)
- Fever or chills
Prompt care can prevent infection and protect your long-term mobility.
Taking Steps Toward Lasting Foot Health
Diabetic foot ulcers are one of the most preventable yet potentially devastating complications of diabetes. By practicing daily foot care, wearing proper shoes, managing blood sugar, and maintaining regular checkups, you can drastically reduce your risk.
Your feet carry you through every part of life — keeping them healthy means preserving your freedom, mobility, and independence. With consistent attention and professional guidance, you can stay one step ahead of diabetic complications and continue moving with confidence.