Short answer: To prevent a diabetic foot ulcer from recurring, control the pressure that caused it. Wearing properly fitted diabetic shoes and insoles can help. In severe cases, an ankle-foot orthotic might be needed. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist can ensure the ulcer stays healed and prevent complications.
Why Diabetic Foot Ulcers Occur
Diabetic foot ulcers happen due to a combination of high blood sugar levels, nerve damage, and poor circulation affecting the feet. When blood sugar levels are not well-controlled, it can damage the nerves, causing a loss of sensation known as neuropathy. This makes it easier to injure your feet without noticing. Poor circulation slows down healing, increasing the risk of infection. Pressure points on the feet, especially on the soles, can turn into open sores or ulcers if not properly managed.
What You Can Do at Home
Preventing a diabetic foot ulcer from coming back starts with managing your diabetes effectively. Keeping your blood sugar levels within range helps reduce complications. Use a blood glucose monitor to track your levels regularly, follow your doctor’s advice on medication, and maintain a diabetes-friendly diet and exercise routine.
Proper footwear is essential. Diabetic shoes and custom insoles help distribute weight evenly across your feet, minimizing pressure points. When choosing shoes, make sure they fit well, with enough room for your toes and no tight spots. Keep your feet clean by washing them daily and drying carefully, particularly between the toes to prevent fungal infections. Moisturize your feet to keep the skin supple, but avoid applying lotion between the toes.
Inspect your feet every day for any signs of redness, blisters, or open sores. A small mirror can help you check the bottoms of your feet. Avoid walking barefoot to reduce the risk of cuts or injuries.
What a Podiatrist Can Do
A podiatrist plays a crucial role in preventing the recurrence of foot ulcers. They can provide you with diabetic footwear, including shoes that are designed specifically to relieve pressure. Custom-made insoles may be provided to better match the contours of your feet, ensuring pressure points are reduced.
In cases where your foot structure requires additional support—such as with Charcot foot or a very flat foot—a podiatrist may recommend an ankle-foot orthotic (AFO). This device helps stabilize and protect your foot and ankle by redistributing pressure.
Regular visits to the podiatrist for professional foot exams help in early detection of potential issues. They can also offer foot pain relief treatments and provide advice on skin and nail care to prevent problems from developing.
When to See a Podiatrist
You notice any redness, swelling, or warmth in your foot, as these could be signs of an underlying problem.
There are any new sores, cuts, or blisters that show no signs of healing.
Your foot pain is persistent or becomes more severe.
There are signs of infection, such as pus, a bad odor, or increased discharge from an old or new wound.
You experience increased numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in your feet, indicating worsening neuropathy.
If you’re located in the Houston or Cypress area and need assistance with managing a diabetic foot ulcer or preventing it from returning, visit the DeNiel Foot & Ankle Center. We offer comprehensive diabetic foot care to help keep your feet healthy and minimize the risk of complications.
