Diabetic Ulcers

Diabetic Ulcers: Prevention and Treatment in Yarmouth and Portland, ME

Diabetic ulcers are open sores or wounds that develop most often on the feet as a result of poor circulation or nerve damage caused by diabetes. These ulcers can become serious if not treated promptly, potentially leading to infection or other complications. At Coastal Maine Foot and Ankle in Yarmouth, ME, serving Portland, Dr. Barry White provides comprehensive diabetic foot care to help prevent and manage these wounds effectively.

What Causes Diabetic Ulcers

Ulcers often start with a small injury, such as a blister or abrasion, that doesn’t heal properly because of reduced blood flow or nerve sensation in the feet. People with diabetes may not notice the wound developing until it has already worsened. Additional contributing factors include tight shoes, structural foot deformities, or elevated blood sugar levels that slow recovery and increase the risk of infection.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Typical symptoms of diabetic ulcers include redness, swelling, discharge, or a foul smell coming from a sore on the foot. The surrounding skin might appear darker or thicker, and in more advanced cases, it may cause discomfort or complete numbness. Any visible sore on the foot that fails to heal within a few days should be checked by a podiatrist without delay.

Treatment and Wound Care

At Coastal Maine Foot and Ankle, Dr. White focuses on both healing and prevention. Care may include debridement to clear damaged tissue, specialized dressings, antibiotics to control infection, and offloading strategies to ease pressure on the wound. For deep or lingering ulcers, advanced wound care therapies can be applied to accelerate recovery and protect surrounding tissues from further damage.

Preventing Future Ulcers

Avoiding ulcers altogether remains the best defense for diabetic feet. Routine self-checks, clean hygiene, and properly fitted shoes help catch minor issues before they become more serious. Patients should work to keep blood sugar well-controlled and attend regular podiatry visits to maintain strong, healthy feet over time.

Expert Diabetic Foot Care in Yarmouth and Portland

Living with diabetes requires careful attention to your feet. Dr. Barry White and the team at Coastal Maine Foot and Ankle offer specialized care to prevent, detect, and treat diabetic ulcers before complications arise. Call (207) 888-3640 today to schedule an appointment at our Yarmouth office, serving the greater Portland, ME, area.