Why Do Diabetics Get Ulcers?

Many people wonder, “Why do diabetics get ulcers?” The answer lies in how diabetes affects your nerves, blood flow, and immune system.

When you have diabetes:

  • Nerve damage (neuropathy) can make it hard to feel pain, heat, or injury—so small cuts or blisters often go unnoticed.

  • Poor circulation from narrowed or damaged arteries reduces blood flow, depriving your feet of the oxygen and nutrients needed to heal.

  • A weakened immune response slows healing and increases the risk of infection.

As these issues combine, even a minor injury can worsen with continued walking or pressure, eventually leading to a diabetic ulcer—an open wound that can become infected and, in severe cases, threaten your foot’s health.

🚨 Prompt care is critical. Untreated ulcers can quickly turn dangerous, but early prevention makes all the difference.

What Are Diabetic Ulcers?

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with diabetes, you might be asking, “What exactly are diabetic ulcers, and why are they such a big concern?”

Diabetic ulcers are open sores or wounds that most often appear on the bottom of the feet or toes, where they’re easy to miss. They usually begin as small cuts, blisters, or calluses that worsen because your body’s slowed healing process can’t keep up with the damage.

Once the skin breaks open, the wound becomes vulnerable to infection, which can spread quickly. Without proper treatment, this can lead to severe complications—including amputation.

That’s why prompt, professional diabetic wound care is essential. The sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances of healing fully and avoiding long-term problems.

If you or a loved one has noticed a sore or open wound on the feet, don’t wait.

📍 Contact Dr. Darren Silvester at Next Step Foot & Ankle Clinic in Pleasanton, TX, for expert diabetic foot care.
📞 Call (210) 375-3318 or use our online contact form to schedule an appointment.