Diabetes damages the nerves and blood vessels of the feet. That combination means a wound can appear without pain, worsen without warning, and heal slowly. Recognising trouble early is the most powerful thing a patient or family member can do.
The seven warning signs
- A blister, cut or sore that has not improved in 3 days
- Redness, warmth or swelling around any part of the foot
- Fluid, pus or an unpleasant smell from a wound
- Black or dark discolouration of a toe or area of skin
- Skin that feels hot on one foot but not the other
- New numbness, tingling or loss of feeling
- Fever or feeling unwell along with a foot wound
What to do today
Do not wait for the wound to "settle". Do not apply home remedies, hot water or over-the-counter corn removers. Keep weight off the foot, cover the wound with a clean dry dressing, and see the diabetic foot clinic the same day.
How we treat diabetic foot ulcers
At the Mynah Diabetic Foot Center, treatment follows a structured approach: assess blood supply and nerve function, remove dead tissue (debridement), control infection, offload pressure from the wound using special footwear or casts, and coordinate blood sugar control with your physician. Most ulcers heal fully with this approach.
Prevention is daily
Check both feet every evening — use a mirror for the soles. Wear well-fitting closed shoes, never walk barefoot, and have a professional foot check at least once a year (more often if you have had an ulcer before).
Frequently asked questions
How quickly can a diabetic foot ulcer become serious?
Within days. Infection can reach bone in under a week in someone with poor circulation, which is why same-day assessment matters.
Will I need an amputation?
The vast majority of ulcers heal with early, proper care. Amputation is a last resort, and limb-preserving options are always considered first.
This article is for general information and does not replace an individual consultation. If you are worried about your child or yourself, please book an appointment.