Foot ulcers are a serious condition that require prompt medical care to prevent infection and long-term complications. At St. Louis Foot & Ankle, our podiatry specialists diagnose and treat foot ulcers using advanced wound care techniques to promote healing and protect your foot health.
If you have a wound on your foot that isn’t healing, call (314) 596-9670 today to schedule an evaluation.
What Is a Foot Ulcer?
A foot ulcer is an open sore or wound that develops on the foot, often on the bottom of the foot or around pressure points. These ulcers commonly affect individuals with diabetes, poor circulation, or nerve damage, but they can occur in anyone.
Without proper treatment, foot ulcers can become infected and may lead to serious complications. Early care from a podiatrist is the best way to prevent the condition from worsening.
Common Causes of Foot Ulcers
Foot ulcers often develop when pressure, injury, and poor healing combine. Some of the most common causes include:
- Diabetes and diabetic neuropathy
- Poor circulation (peripheral artery disease)
- Foot deformities such as bunions or hammertoes
- Prolonged pressure from ill-fitting shoes
- Foot injuries or trauma
- Reduced sensation in the feet
People with diabetes are especially at risk because nerve damage can prevent them from feeling small injuries that may turn into ulcers.
Symptoms of a Foot Ulcer
Foot ulcers may develop gradually. Some warning signs include:
- An open sore on the foot
- Drainage on socks or shoes
- Redness or swelling around a wound
- Skin discoloration or thickened skin around the ulcer
- Pain or tenderness (though some ulcers may be painless)
- Signs of infection such as warmth, odor, or pus
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to seek professional care right away.
Foot Ulcer Treatment
At St. Louis Foot & Ankle, we provide personalized treatment to help ulcers heal safely and effectively. Treatment may include:
- Professional wound cleaning and care
- Removal of damaged or infected tissue
- Protective dressings and bandaging
- Offloading techniques to reduce pressure on the ulcer
- Custom orthotics or specialized footwear
- Infection management and monitoring
Our goal is to promote healing while preventing infection and recurrence.
Preventing Foot Ulcers
Preventive care is especially important for people with diabetes or circulation problems. You can reduce your risk by:
- Checking your feet daily for cuts, blisters, or wounds
- Wearing properly fitted shoes
- Keeping your feet clean and moisturized
- Managing blood sugar levels if you have diabetes
- Scheduling routine foot exams with a podiatrist
Routine podiatry care can help detect problems early before they develop into ulcers.
When to See a Podiatrist
You should seek medical attention if you notice:
- A wound that does not begin healing within a few days
- Signs of infection such as swelling, redness, or drainage
- Increasing pain in your foot
- A sore that becomes deeper or larger
Prompt treatment can prevent serious complications.
Expert Foot Ulcer Care in St. Louis
If you have a foot wound or ulcer, the team at St. Louis Foot & Ankle is here to help. We provide comprehensive podiatry care focused on healing, prevention, and long-term foot health.
📞 Call (314) 596-9670 today to schedule an appointment and get the care your feet need.