Diabetic Ulcers

Signature Health Services can help with the management and treatment of Diabetic Ulcers.

Diabetic Ulcer and How We Care For It

What is a Diabetic Ulcer?

Approximately 15% of diabetic patients develop an open sore or wound known as a diabetic ulcer, which often appears on the bottom of the foot. Sadly, six percent of those who develop sores from diabetes will require hospitalization due to infection or other complications.

Ulcers can be caused by poor circulation, foot deformities, or irritation from pressure or friction. Diabetic patients with neuropathy may not feel pain in their feet due to nerve damage from high blood glucose levels. These ulcers can occur without causing any pain, so they may go unnoticed.

Diabetes is the primary cause of non-traumatic lower extremity amputations in the United States, and 14 to 24 percent of diabetic patients with foot ulcers will undergo amputations. However, studies have demonstrated that diabetic foot ulcers can be prevented.

Who can be affected by Diabetic Ulcers?

Anyone with diabetes is susceptible to developing foot ulcers. Older men and patients who use insulin or have diabetes-related kidney, eye, or heart disease are at a higher risk. Additionally, being overweight and using alcohol or tobacco products can contribute to developing these ulcers.

Diabetic ulceration is commonly caused by:

Hyperglycemia (high blood pressure)
Nerve damage
Poor circulation
Wounded or irritated feet

Diabetic foot ulcer stages

The following is a scale used to describe the severity of foot ulcers:

0: No visible open wounds; there may have been a previously healed wound.
1: A shallow ulcer that has not penetrated more profound layers of tissue.
2: A deeper ulcer that has reached the tendon, bone, or joint capsule.
3: The ulcer has affected deeper tissues and may have caused an abscess or tendonitis.
4: Gangrene has developed in a portion of the forefoot or heel.
5: The entire foot is extensively affected by gangrene.

What is the treatment for Diabetic Ulcers?

When treating diabetic wounds, the main objective is to promote healing as quickly as possible, as this reduces the risk of infection. Proper treatment of diabetic foot ulcers involves a few key factors, including:

preventing infection
relieving pressure from the affected area (off-loading)
removing dead tissue and skin (debridement)
applying dressing or medication to the ulcer
managing blood glucose and other health issues

It’s important to note that not all ulcers are infected, but if your podiatric physician detects an infection, you may need to undergo a treatment program that involves antibiotics, wound care, and potentially hospitalization. Most non-infected foot ulcers are treated without surgery, but surgical management may be necessary if this approach is unsuccessful.

How can Diabetic Ulcers be prevented?

Preventing is crucial since over 50% of diabetic foot ulcers get infected, and about 20% of severe foot infections in diabetic patients lead to amputation. If left untreated, ulcers can lead to abscesses and spread to other areas of the feet and legs. Surgical intervention, amputation, or synthetic skin substitutes may be necessary in such cases.

There are some actions a patient at high risk of developing diabetic ulcers can take, such as:

Maintain their blood sugar in check
Check their skin regularly to find abnormalities
Avoid smoking
Keep their feet away from injuries
See a podiatrist regularly

How much does Diabetic Ulcer treatment cost in Houston, Texas?

Professional involvement in a medical treatment cost depends on your health requirements and medical insurance particularities. However, a skilled nurse will always be prepared to deal with any existing wound and help prevent the development of new ones as well.

Why choose Signature Health Services?

At Signature, we have the experience and resources to provide the best support for the patient and the family. Also, our registered nurses may help with assistance and could support any treatment process.

picture of a patient with Diabetic Ulcers

For more information on how Signature Health Services can help with your healthcare needs, please call 1 (800) 277-8291 or email information@signaturehealthservices.net.