MedDroid
Ask MedDroid
Diabetic Foot Ulcer
An open sore on the foot in people with diabetes, caused by nerve damage and poor blood flow. It can become infected and, if neglected, threaten the limb.
Causes & risk factors
- Nerve damage reducing foot sensation (neuropathy)
- Poor blood flow (peripheral artery disease)
- Uncontrolled blood sugar
- Foot injuries or ill-fitting footwear
- Infection
Common symptoms
- A sore or wound on the foot
- Numbness or tingling
- Redness or discharge
- Fever if infected
- Foul smell or blackened tissue (serious)
Tests & diagnosis
- HbA1c
- Blood sugar
- Blood count
- Wound swab / culture
- Doppler and ankle-brachial index
Treatment & management
- Good blood sugar control
- Wound cleaning, dressing and offloading pressure
- Antibiotics for infection
- Restoring blood flow (angioplasty or bypass) if arteries are blocked
- Regular foot care and proper footwear
When to see a doctor urgently
- Seek urgent care for a foot wound with spreading redness, fever or black tissue
- See a doctor for any new foot sore if you have diabetes
- Check feet daily and never ignore a small injury
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about diabetic foot ulcer. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Why are diabetic foot ulcers so serious?
Reduced sensation hides injuries and poor blood flow slows healing, so small wounds can worsen and risk the limb.
How can I prevent them?
Keep blood sugar controlled, inspect feet daily, wear well-fitting shoes and treat any sore early.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.