If you have diabetes, you have a higher chance of developing foot sores, or ulcers, also referred to as diabetic ulcers.
Foot ulcers are a predominant reason for hospital stays for people suffering from diabetes. It may take time period of couple of weeks or even several months for foot ulcers to heal. Diabetic ulcers are typically painless (because of decreased sensation in the feet).
Whether or not you have a foot ulcer, you will need to have knowledge of how best to take care of your feet.
Why Do They Happen?
1. Nerve Damage (Peripheral Neuropathy)
High/Elevated blood sugar can damage nerves over time, causing loss of sensation in the feet. Without feeling pain, cuts or blisters may go unnoticed and progress into ulcers.
2. Poor Circulation
Diabetes may also impair blood flow to the extremities. Slow blood flow means slow healing—sometimes even minor injuries can turn serious.
3. Skin Changes/Alterations
Dry, cracked skin is predominant in diabetes, creating an easy entry point for germs (bacteria).
4. Foot Deformities
Conditions such as hammertoes or Charcot foot can create pressure points where ulcers form.
Diabetic foot ulcers are classified into stages to help clinicians understand severity, guide treatment, and predict healing.
Wagner Ulcer Classification System
The Wagner system grades ulcers from 0 to 5, focusing on depth of the wound and presence of gangrene.
Grade 0
- No open ulcer
- May have high-risk foot conditions (calluses, deformities, healed ulcer)
Grade 1
- Superficial ulcer
- Involves only the top layers of skin (epidermis/dermis)
Grade 2
- Deeper ulcer
- Extends into tendon, ligament, joint capsule, or deeper tissues
- No bone involvement yet
Grade 3
- Deep ulcer with infection
- Often comprises – osteomyelitis (bone infection) or abscess
Grade 4
- Localized gangrene of the forefoot or toes
Grade 5
- Extensive gangrene of the entire foot
- Often needs urgent surgical intervention
How Are Diabetic Foot Ulcers Treated?
Treatment depends on the severity but generally comprises:
1. Debridement
Removing dead or infected tissue to enhance the healing process.
2. Offloading
Reducing pressure on the ulcer using special shoes, casts, or custom inserts.
3. Infection Control
Topical or oral antibiotics may be utilised if infection is present.
4. Wound Care
Keeping the wound clean, moist, and shielded.
5. Managing Blood Sugar Levels
Stable glucose levels speed healing as well as decrease complications.
D-Fibroheal Ag Foam Adhesive is used for diabetic foot ulcers..
D-Fibroheal Ag Foam Adhesive is a silk protein and nano silver based super-absorbent, antimicrobial foam dressing with adhesive backing which provides safe and secure fixation over the wound site.