Guide to Diabetic Ulcers (And a New Clinical Trial!)

For a person living with diabetes, any break in the skin on the foot is a serious concern. A simple blister or a small cut, which might be a minor annoyance for someone else, can become a major health risk.
When a wound on the foot fails to heal, it is called a diabetic foot ulcer (DFU). This is a serious complication that requires immediate medical intervention to prevent infection and more severe outcomes. In the blog below, Advanced Feet & Ankle Care will clue you in to the details of the issue…and what may contribute to a wound that just won’t heal.

Struggling With a Non-Healing Wound? You Are Not Alone.
Diabetes can reduce your body's ability to heal, especially when it comes to your feet.

·        Poor circulation limits the blood flow needed for repair, and nerve damage (neuropathy) might mean you don't even feel the wound getting worse.

·        Standard wound care treatments, orthotics, and specialized diabetic shoes are the first line of defense…but what happens when a wound still won't close after weeks of care?

This is a common, frustrating, and dangerous situation. For those in this exact position, understanding the underlying causes is key to preventing further complications.

Hidden Harm

When a diabetic foot ulcer lingers, it often reflects more than just a surface-level problem.

·        High blood sugar can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off bacteria that naturally live on the skin.

·        Even small wounds can become vulnerable to infections that spread quickly if not treated early.

·        This is why monitoring your feet every day—looking for redness, swelling, drainage, or changes in skin temperature—is essential.

The Role of Foot Structure

People with diabetes may develop changes in foot shape, such as hammertoes or a collapsed arch, which create abnormal pressure points.

·        These high-pressure areas can break down the skin and prevent existing wounds from closing.

·        Add reduced sensation from neuropathy, and many patients don’t realize a sore spot is worsening until it becomes a deep ulcer.

·        Moisture, fungal infections, and calluses can further complicate the healing process.

 Something as simple as a thick callus can hide an ulcer underneath or create enough pressure to open the skin. That’s why routine foot exams, proper footwear, and early intervention are so important. The sooner a potential problem is identified, the better the chances of avoiding serious complications like infection or hospitalization.

Dr. Jason Grossman and Dr. Paul A. Osemene are ready to help at our comfortable, convenient Advanced Feet and Ankle Care offices in Old Bridge, Sayreville, and Freehold. Call (732) 679-4330 to schedule your appointment, or contact us online.