Understanding Foot Ulcers: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Foot ulcers in Hillsboro, TX, can have many different causes. Dr. Suzanne Jenkins at Hill County Foot & Ankle offers complete care for your feet and ankles. By knowing what causes foot ulcers, you will be in a better position to prevent them, get treatment for them early, and continue treatment for as long as necessary.

Causes

Diabetic neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy is one of the many complications of diabetes. It can happen anywhere on the body, but when it happens in the feet, it can lead to foot ulcers in Hillsboro, TX, and, if left untreated, to amputations. It causes the loss of sensation, meaning an injury can go unnoticed. 

Peripheral arterial disease

When you have peripheral arterial disease, you have diminished circulation in the feet and hands. If you have a sore on your foot and are not getting enough nutrient-rich blood, it may fail to heal correctly or get infected. 

Structural deformities

When your feet have structural deformities, an inordinate amount of pressure may be applied to a spot on your foot or on your toes, leading to an ulcer on your foot. 

Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection deep in the skin. It causes pain and swelling, which can make it hard to walk. If cellulitis is combined with other foot issues, it can result in foot ulcers. 

Poor circulation in the foot

You don't need peripheral arterial disease to have bad foot circulation. However, the results can be the same: there is a lack of healing in foot injuries or cuts. 

Symptoms

If you have sensations in your feet, you may have pain and a hot, swollen foot. If it gets advanced, you may run a fever, have flu-like symptoms, and generally feel unwell. It will be an open sore that isn't healing correctly. 

Treatment Options

The first treatment will be to control any infection and apply the correct dressing to allow the wound to heal. Debridement may be necessary to remove any tissues keeping the wound from healing correctly. Part of the treatment must be a correct diagnosis of the primary cause of the foot ulcer. The follow-up treatment for diabetic neuropathy means keeping blood sugar under control. Custom orthotics can help to correct what is causing the ulceration. 

If you are concerned about the possibility of foot ulcers in Hillsboro, TX, you need the services of a podiatrist. Dr. Jenkins of Hill County Foot & Ankle has a full-service practice. Call the office at (254) 582-9300 to make an appointment.