What is a diabetic foot ulcer?
A. Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are defined as “any breakdown in the skin on the foot of a diabetic person.” This includes even minor redness, callus, blisters or sores. If you believe you have a diabetic foot ulcer, contact your doctor immediately. Early identification of a diabetic foot ulcer will improve your chances of healing. Q. What causes diabetic foot ulcers? A. Neuropathy (loss of sensation) and/or ischemia (inadequate blood flow) are the major causes of diabetic foot ulcers. Both are common complications associated with diabetes. Persons living with diabetes also have a diminished ability to fight infection, which can delay the healing process once an ulcer is formed, so it is important to consult a doctor if you have any loss of sensation in your feet. Q. If I am living with diabetes, will I develop a foot ulcer? A. Anyone living with diabetes is at risk of developing a diabetic foot ulcer. Of the more than 20 million people in the US with diabetes, as many as 25% will develo
