Diabetic Ulcers

When you have diabetes, you could be at risk for diabetic ulcers that can significantly impact your mobility and overall health. VIP Wound, with offices in Memphis, Tennessee, and Holly Springs, Mississippi, provides expert wound care for slow and nonhealing diabetic ulcers. To schedule a consultation to explore your treatment options, call the nearest office today. 

What are diabetic ulcers? 

Diabetic ulcers are the leading reason for hospitalization among men and women with diabetes in the United States. Diabetic ulcers are a common complication of those who have diabetes, a metabolic condition that has devastating effects on the cells, tissues, and organs of the body. 

The ulcers are the result of long-term damage to the circulatory and immune systems that are caused by diabetes. They are slow or nonhealing sores commonly found on the legs or feet that are often hard to treat and require specialized wound care.

Diabetic ulcers may start as small, red sores on your legs, feet, or toes. They can develop from minor cuts, scratches, or injuries that you may not realize are there until they’re already a serious problem. 

What causes diabetic ulcers?

Diabetes affects how the body processes glucose (sugar), which is consumed in food and used as the primary fuel for every major system in the body. Due to inadequate production or improper use of insulin, a hormone responsible for processing glucose, the sugar accumulates in the bloodstream. 

Chronically high blood sugar prevents the regeneration of cells, tissues, and organs. This causes:

• Weakened blood vessels
• Decreased circulation
• Impaired immune response 
• Damaged nerves
• Poor skin quality 

You may be at risk for getting a diabetic ulcer if you have uncontrolled blood sugars, are obese, are a smoker, have kidney disease, or don’t carefully monitor your skin. 

What are the symptoms of a diabetic ulcer?

If you have diabetes and you develop a sore on your foot or leg, you should see a wound care specialist if you notice:

• Drainage 
• Swelling
• Irritation
• Odor
• Redness
• Black or discolored tissue
• Skin discoloration

Daily checks of your feet and legs and getting early treatment for any sores can help prevent diabetic ulcers and help you avoid potential complications of these hard-to-treat wounds.

What are the treatments for diabetic ulcers?

Without treatment, diabetic ulcers get progressively worse until they need specialized wound care. The team at VIP Wound offers expert diabetic ulcer care and provides personalized treatment plans that may include the following:

• Casts 
• Diabetic foot care education
• Specialized footwear
• Antibiotic medications
• Blood and vascular testing

They may suggest treatments, such as compression therapy, skin grafting, or removal of dead or infected tissues. Effective wound care is essential to avoid tissue loss, amputation, or systemic infection. 

For a consultation regarding your diabetic ulcer, call VIP Wound today.