Diabetic Foot Wound Care
Diabetic foot wounds form easily and heal slowly because of nerve damage and poor circulation. Early, regular care is key to preventing serious complications.
Over time, diabetes can cause nerve damage (neuropathy) and vascular disease in the feet. Because neuropathy reduces feeling, a small scratch, a rubbing shoe or a callus can turn into a wound without being noticed. Poor circulation and high blood sugar then make healing harder. When diabetic foot wounds are treated correctly and in time, most of them can heal.
How do wounds form?
- Friction from unsuitable shoes
- Pressure ulcers under calluses and hardened skin
- Small injuries when cutting toenails
- Unnoticed cuts from walking barefoot
- Burns from hot water, stoves or heaters
- Pressure points caused by foot deformities (hammer toes, Charcot foot)
Principles of treatment
Wound assessment
The depth of the wound, whether it reaches bone, signs of infection and the circulation of the foot are assessed. X-rays, MRI and vascular studies are done when needed.
Debridement
Dead and infected tissue around the wound is removed regularly. This is necessary for healing to begin.
Offloading
Removing pressure from the wound is one of the most important conditions for healing. Special shoes, insoles, offloading boots or a total contact cast may be used.
Dressings
Depending on the wound, modern dressings are chosen that keep a moist environment, absorb discharge or have an antimicrobial effect.
Infection control
If there are signs of infection, suitable antibiotics are started; deep infections may need surgical cleaning.
Blood sugar and circulation
Good blood sugar control speeds healing. If circulation is poor, treatment is planned together with vascular surgery.
What to do at home
- Check your feet every day, using a mirror if needed
- Wash your feet in lukewarm water and dry between the toes well
- Moisturise dry skin, but not between the toes
- Cut nails straight across and do not cut calluses yourself
- Do not walk barefoot; wear seamless socks and comfortable shoes
The right shoes and insoles
For people with diabetes, shoes are one of the most important tools for preventing wounds. Choose soft, well-fitting shoes with a wide, deep toe box and no internal seams. For patients with foot deformities or previous wounds, custom insoles and shoes clearly reduce the risk of new wounds. New shoes should be worn for short periods at first, and the feet checked afterwards.
Why regular check-ups matter
People with diabetes should have their feet examined at least once a year, and more often if they have had wounds or have risk factors. These checks assess loss of feeling, circulation, skin and nail problems and foot deformities.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a diabetic foot wound take to heal?
It depends on the size and depth of the wound, the circulation and blood sugar control. With regular care, most wounds show healing within weeks.
My wound doesn't hurt. Could it still be serious?
Yes. Because of nerve damage, even serious wounds can be painless. No pain does not mean the wound is minor.
When should I seek urgent care?
Seek care without delay if redness spreads, or there is swelling, a bad smell, discharge, fever or a change in the colour of the foot.
The information on this page is general and does not replace an examination. An examination is needed to decide which treatment suits you.