Mythbusting: If An Ulcer Doesn't Hurt, It Can't Be Bad
Posted by Apex Foot Health on 8th Sep 2022
Did you know that 1 in 4 people with diabetes will get a foot ulcer at some point in their lives?
Do you have a foot ulcer? If so, it's crucial to take care of it quickly – even if you don't feel any pain.
A lack of pain often makes people think an ulcer isn't severe, but that's a myth. Foot ulcers can be a big problem if proper treatment isn't received.
Want to learn why you should treat a foot ulcer no matter how low your pain level is? Read on to find out!
What Are the Causes of Foot Ulcers?
Many things can cause foot ulcers, but the most common is diabetes. Diabetes can cause foot ulcers in two ways.
Nerve Damage
Diabetes can damage the nerves in your body. Diabetic neuropathy is the name of this condition.
With diabetic neuropathy, you may not feel pain, heat, or cold as well. Noticing an ulcer becomes harder to detect as the neuropathy progresses.
Poor Blood Flow
Diabetes can also cause poor blood flow to your feet. That means that even a minor injury can turn into an ulcer.
Other causes of foot ulcers include:
- Poor circulation
- Foot deformities
- Previous foot injuries
- Smoking
Although foot ulcers often happen with diabetes, anyone can get a foot ulcer. That's why taking care of your feet every day is essential.
What Are the Different Types of Foot Ulcers?
Foot problems can cause different types of foot ulcers. Here are some of the most common types.
Pressure Ulcer
Pressure ulcers happen when there's too much pressure on the foot. The ulcer usually forms over a bony area.
Venous Ulcer
Venous ulcers form when there's poor circulation. It usually appears on the inside of the leg, just above the ankle.
Neuropathic Ulcer
As the name suggests, this foot ulcer happens due to nerve damage. It can form anywhere along the foot.
Arterial Ulcer
Arterial ulcers happen when there's poor blood flow. It usually forms on the foot's toes, footpad, or heel.
Foot Ulcer Treatment
Foot health is vital to foot ulcer treatment. That's why it's crucial to see a foot specialist if you think you might have an ulcer.
Staying off your feet is one of the most important aspects of foot ulcer treatment. It helps take the pressure off the foot to allow for healing.
There are different ways to do this, including:
- Resting your foot
- Elevating your foot
- Wearing special shoes or foot pads
- Using crutches or a wheelchair
Surgery may sometimes be necessary to remove dead tissue from the foot ulcer. Surgery is also an option to correct foot deformities.
Get an Annual Foot Ulcer Medical Test
Now you know why it's essential to treat foot ulcers, even if they're not causing pain. But how do you know if you have a foot ulcer?
The best way to find out is to get a foot ulcer medical examination every year. This test is simple and painless.
A specialist will be able to recommend the best treatment options for you. They can also offer suggestions on footwear and foot care.
Are you looking for footwear to help with foot ulcer treatment and prevention? If so, then check out our diabetic footwear!