A diabetic foot ulcer is a break in the skin or deeper tissue on the foot that may be harder to heal when diabetes affects nerves and circulation. This page explains typical causes, ways to reduce risk, everyday care, and when to get medical help.
These ulcers develop when reduced sensation (neuropathy) or poor blood flow allow small cuts or pressure points to go unnoticed and heal poorly. Because circulation and immune response can be affected, even minor wounds may become infected or persist without proper assessment.
Long-standing high blood glucose, peripheral neuropathy, foot deformities, prior foot ulcers or amputations, smoking and vascular disease raise the chance of ulcer formation. Early warning signs include persistent redness, warmth, discharge or odor, non-healing blisters or cuts, and numbness or burning sensations. Noting these early lets you seek timely evaluation.
Preventive steps include daily self-inspection of both feet, wearing well‑fitting shoes and socks, gentle nail and skin care, and blood-glucose control to lower overall risk. Have routine professional foot checks—particularly if you have neuropathy or circulatory problems—to catch issues before they worsen.
Seek prompt medical evaluation for any new foot wound, signs of infection (increased redness, swelling, warmth, discharge or foul odor), rapidly spreading redness, or systemic symptoms like fever. If a wound deteriorates quickly, there is severe bleeding, or there are signs of widespread infection, go to emergency services.
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