Neuropathic Ulcerations

Ulcers can occur in different parts of the body. Many people are familiar with stomach ulcers, or an ulcer in the mouth, but ulcers also occur on the lower limbs. This week will be the first blog of a series on different ulcers podiatrists treat. Today’s discussion is on neuropathic foot ulcers, most commonly found in Diabetic patients. Ulcers are the most common precursor to lower extremity amputations. While it is estimated that 7% of the US has Diabetes, an estimated 15% of diabetic patients will go on to develop an ulcer on their lower limbs. Neuropathy, deformity, high pressure on the feet, poor blood sugar control, duration of diabetes and the male gender are all contributory factors for foot ulcers.

So how do these occur? Many diabetics develop neuropathy, where they lose the feeling of sensation in their feet due to nerve death. Neuropathic patients can cause trauma to their feet, such as stepping on a nail, dropping an object or burning their feet, and not even realize it. These tiny wounds develop into larger, deeper, infected wounds. And since diabetes affects wound healing, what was a tiny puncture wound can progress into larger limb-threatening ones. If you do develop a neuropathic ulcer, seek medical attention immediately. Your podiatrist will want to assess the wound to determine if hospitalization is necessary. Generally if it isn’t too large or infected, rapid wound care can be started at your podiatrist’s office. However in the face of severe infection, IV antibiotics and possibly surgery have to be done. The best prevention is to stop by your podiatrist’s office and get a foot checkup. He or she will test your sensation as well as assess your current footwear choices. Also, managing your blood sugar should be priority #1 to help prevent neuropathy in the first place. For more questions and concerns on this, consult with Dr.Grimm or Dr.Pattison of Foot Associates of Central Texas.