Foot ulcers are open sores that either will not heal or continue to return. They can be caused by a variety of factors and require treatment and close management to ensure they heal properly due to the risk of infection and damage to your feet. But do foot ulcers hurt?
Do Foot Ulcers Hurt?
Depending on the type and severity of the ulcer, the treatment plan will look different. Foot ulcers can inhibit your daily activities and some foot ulcers do hurt. Below you will find more information on the causes of foot ulcers, the various types, and treatment options.
Causes of Foot Ulcers
Ulcers can be very difficult to heal due to the nature of the wounds. However, focusing on staying healthy and taking as many preventative measures as possible can help. Below are the most common causes of foot ulcers.
- Diabetes
- Kidney failure
- Hypertension
- Lymphedema
- Poor circulation
- Venous insufficiency
- Inflammatory diseases
- Genetics
- History of smoking
- Infection
- Certain medications
- Malignancy
- Other clotting or circulation disorders
Types of Foot Ulcers
There are two common types of foot ulcers, including neurotrophic and arterial.
- Neurotrophic Ulcers: These are also referred to as diabetic ulcers and are often located on pressure points on the bottom of your feet. Roughly 15% of those with diabetes experience diabetic foot ulcers. However, they can be found anywhere on your foot. Diabetic foot ulcers look different depending on the level of circulation in your feet. They can appear as a red and pink color or a brown and black color. The border of the ulcer often appears punched out with calloused surrounding skin. For those who suffer from a diabetic foot, it’s important to check your feet daily and wear supportive footwear. People with a diabetic foot in Santa Barbara should never walk barefoot. This type of ulcer can also be accompanied by pain which should be discussed with a medical professional.
- Arterial Ulcers: These are also referred to as ischemic ulcers and are often located on your heels, on the tips of your toes, or between your toes. Sometimes they can be found on your nail bed if the toenail cuts into the skin. They usually are yellow, brown, black, or grey in terms of color and do not bleed like other types of ulcers. Just like diabetic foot ulcers, the border looks like it’s punched out. Your leg may change colors depending on the position your foot is in. For example, when your foot is dangled your leg may appear red. However, when your leg is elevated, it may be a white or yellow color. These types of ulcers are extremely painful and require immediate treatment.
Treatment Options
Depending on the type of ulcer, your medical background, and the status of your ulcer, your treatment may look different. It’s important to consult with a board-certified podiatrist to ensure you are getting optimal results from your treatment plan. The goal of treatment is to focus on wound care and getting your ulcer healed. In addition, it’s important to increase your circulation and stay off your feet during the healing process. Some treatment options may include a brace, specialized cast, crutches, or even a wheelchair depending on the severity. Surgery may be needed, but this is only for very rare and severe cases.
Podiatrist in Camarillo
If you have a foot ulcer and need a treatment plan, contact Foot & Ankle Concepts, Inc. They have a number of locations all over California, including Oxnard, Ventura, Santa Barbara, Camarillo, Palmdale, and Westlake. They are skilled at treating foot and ankle issues, including foot ulcers. Their team is focused on setting you up with a treatment plan that works for you. Contact the best podiatrist in Camarillo today for an appointment!
