Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Why They Happen and How to Protect Your Feet

A diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is an open wound on the foot that affects many people living with diabetes — and because diabetes can dull sensation and slow healing, a small sore can become serious quickly. The good news: most diabetic foot ulcers are preventable with daily foot care, the right footwear, good blood-sugar control, and early attention to any wound.

What is a diabetic foot ulcer?

A DFU is a break in the skin, usually on the bottom of the foot, that is slow to heal. It matters because in diabetes, two things often combine: nerve damage (neuropathy), which reduces the ability to feel a blister or cut, and reduced circulation, which slows healing and raises infection risk. Left unaddressed, ulcers are a leading cause of serious foot complications.

Why do they happen?

Pressure points, ill-fitting shoes, minor injuries that go unnoticed, dry cracked skin, and high blood sugar all contribute. Researchers continue to map these drivers — for example, a recent King's College London study, NCT05464524, investigates the environmental and lifestyle factors linked to how often diabetic foot ulcers develop, to improve prevention.

We cite this study to show current research into DFU risk factors; it is not treatment guidance for any individual. If you have diabetes and any foot wound, seek professional care promptly.

How to protect your feet

• Check your feet every day — tops, soles and between the toes — for cuts, blisters, redness or swelling. Use a mirror or ask for help if needed.
• Keep blood sugar in your target range — it is one of the strongest levers for healing and prevention.
• Wear well-fitting shoes and clean, dry socks; never walk barefoot.
• Moisturise dry skin (but not between the toes), and have a professional manage calluses and nails.
• Act early. Any wound that is not healing, or shows redness, warmth, swelling or discharge, needs prompt medical attention.

Caring for a foot wound at home

Wound care for a DFU should be guided by a doctor or wound-care nurse, who will assess circulation and infection and may use specialised dressings and pressure offloading. EMIS+ supplies advanced wound-care dressings and foot-care essentials in Singapore with fast islandwide delivery, so you can follow your care team's plan. Explore EMIS+ wound care →

Source: ClinicalTrials.gov, U.S. National Library of Medicine — study NCT05464524 (King's College London).

This article is general health information, not medical advice. Diabetic foot ulcers can become serious rapidly — if you have diabetes and any foot wound, redness, or loss of sensation, see a doctor or podiatrist promptly. Do not rely on self-care alone.