Early prevention and prompt treatment for wounds are a must, especially for those with diabetes. One of the most common foot wounds is diabetic foot ulcers, and these types of wounds require special care as they worsen over time. 

Foot wounds are one of the most common complications associated with diabetes. Most foot wounds can be prevented with early intervention if one is aware of the risk factors. 

These risk factors include but are not limited to:

• Poor circulation.
• Nerve damage/numbness.
• Obesity (high blood pressure, high cholesterol).
• Smoking.
• Previous diabetes-related complications. 

To prevent diabetic foot wounds, you should take care of your feet by keeping them clean, wearing proper-fitting shoes with non-slip soles, avoiding injury, and keeping active. You should regularly check your feet for sores, cuts, and blisters, as well as cutting your toenails straight across. 

Diabetic foot ulcers are difficult to detect in their early stages. Many times they go undetected until they have worsened to a level that requires immediate treatment. Some of the signs/symptoms that may indicate you have diabetic foot wounds include: pain or tenderness on the bottom of your feet, a heel that feels or looks swollen or is red or dark in color (may indicate an open sore), yellowish clay-like skin (indicates poor blood flow), odor coming from feet, thickened skin and blisters.

If you have a diabetic foot wound, it’s essential to see a podiatrist right away. The wounds can be painful and difficult to heal.