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WOUNDS AND
FOOT SORES
Foot wounds and sores are more than just an inconvenience — if treated incorrectly or not at all they can lead to infections, chronic pain, and serious complications, especially for people with diabetes and/or circulation issues. At Summit Foot + Ankle, our specialists provide expert wound care, focusing on early detection, proper treatment, and long-term prevention so you can stay healthy and active.
MAY BE CAUSED:
Foot wounds can happen to anyone, but certain conditions make them more common.
Common causes include:
01
INJURY OR TRAUMA
Cuts, scrapes, or punctures from stepping on sharp objects.
02
BLISTERS
From friction or poorly fitting shoes.
03
PRESSURE SORES
From prolonged pressure, especially in people with limited mobility.
04
DIABETES
Reduced sensation and circulation make wounds harder to detect and heal.
05
POOR CIRCULATION
Slows down the body’s natural healing process.
06
INFECTIONS
Fungal or bacterial infections that break down the skin barrier.
How Wounds Affect the Feet
Foot wounds can progress quickly, especially if you have diabetes, neuropathy, or vascular issues. Untreated wounds may lead to:
- Infections: Which can spread to deeper tissues or bone
- Ulcers: Chronic open sores that resist healing
- Gangrene: Severe tissue damage in extreme cases
- Amputation Risk: In very severe, untreated infections
Prevention & General Care
You can reduce your risk of foot wounds with daily care:
- Don’t Ignore Minor Injuries: Even small cuts can become serious.
- Check Your Feet Daily: Look for cuts, blisters, or color changes.
- Keep Feet Clean & Moisturized: Prevents cracks and infection.
- Wear Proper Footwear: Supportive, well fitting shoes help prevent injuries and blisters.
- Manage Health Conditions: Control blood sugar and circulation issues (avoid tobacco products).
TREATMENTS:
Imaging
Imaging is usually one of the first treatment options we employ. We utilize the most advanced imaging avenues to ensure you are comfortable and that we get a thorough diagnosis of your wound. We use imaging to determine the severity of the wound and determine the initial cause.
Debridement
Debridement process involves carefully removing dead, damaged, or infected tissue to create a clean, healthy environment for healing. It is a vital part of wound care because it clears away unhealthy tissue which lowers the risk of infection, boosts circulation, and promotes the growth of new, healthy tissue. Our team uses methods customized for each patient to make the process as comfortable as possible and achieve the best healing results.
Advanced Wound Dressing
We use advanced wound dressings to create the ideal environment for healing and protect wounds from infection. These specialized dressings are designed to keep the wound moist, control drainage, and promote faster tissue repair. Our goal is to make the healing process as efficient and comfortable as possible while reducing complications and improving outcomes.
Innovative Skin Grafts
When appropriate we utilize innovative skin graft techniques to help wounds slow to heal or too large to close on their own. Skin grafts involve covering the wound with skin substitutes to encourage new tissue growth and speed up healing. These advanced treatments can reduce scarring, lower infection risk, and restore function to the affected area. Our team carefully selects the most appropriate grafting method for each patient, ensuring optimal healing and the best possible results.
Wound & Foot Sores FAQ:
When should I see a podiatrist for a foot wound?
• Swelling, sensitivity, redness, or warmth around a sore
• Drainage or foul odor from a wound
• Pain or tenderness (or no pain if you have neuropathy)
• Changes in skin color near the wound
• Sores that show no signs of healing after several days
Why are foot wounds dangerous for people with diabetes, circulation and/or neuropathy issues?
How long does it take for a foot wound to heal?
Can foot wounds be prevented?
Do you offer specialized wound care?
