What a diabetic foot ulcer is
A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore that develops on the foot of a person living with diabetes, most often on the ball of the foot, the bottom of the big toe, or a pressure point where a shoe rubs. It usually begins quietly, because high blood sugar over time can damage the nerves that signal pain, so a blister or callus can break down without the patient noticing.
Two factors make these wounds stubborn. Reduced circulation means the tissue receives less oxygen to repair itself, and reduced sensation means the foot keeps bearing weight on an area that needs rest. Left unmanaged, a small ulcer can deepen and reach tendon or bone, which is why consistent professional care matters from the start.
How we treat diabetic foot ulcers
Care is provided by our Advanced Practice Providers (nurse practitioners and physician assistants), and we strive for provider continuity whenever possible so pressure points, drainage, and wound depth are tracked closely over time, though the treating provider may vary based on clinical needs.
Vascular & wound check
Assess circulation, sensation, and the wound bed to shape a realistic healing plan.
Offloading
Redistribute weight off the ulcer with footwear guidance and padding so the area can rest.
Debridement
Remove callus and non-viable tissue when appropriate to expose healthy wound edges.
Targeted dressings
Match dressings to moisture, depth, and infection risk, with clear caregiver instructions.
We watch closely for early signs of infection, coordinate blood sugar and nutrition concerns with the patient's primary care provider and specialists, and send visit notes with progress photos to the primary care provider, home health agency, and assisted living staff when indicated.
Who we help
- Adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes and a foot wound
- Patients with neuropathy or reduced sensation in the feet
- Residents of independent living communities and assisted living facilities
- Families managing daily dressing changes between physician visits
Coverage
Medicare Part B may cover medically necessary wound care, including diabetic foot ulcer care, when eligibility criteria are met. We verify benefits before the first visit and bill Medicare directly, so the financial picture is clear up front. Our insurance specialist walks through the paperwork with you.
Related services
Frequently asked questions
Why do diabetic foot ulcers take so long to heal?
Diabetes can reduce blood flow and dull sensation in the feet, so wounds get less oxygen and are easy to reinjure. Steady offloading, debridement, and the right dressings give a diabetic foot ulcer a better path toward closure.
Can you treat a diabetic foot ulcer at home?
Yes. We bring assessment, debridement, dressings, and offloading guidance to the patient at home, in an independent living community, or in assisted living across the Greater Austin metro.
Does Medicare cover diabetic foot ulcer care?
Medicare Part B may cover medically necessary wound care, including diabetic foot ulcer care, when eligibility criteria are met. We verify your benefits before the first visit and bill Medicare directly.
When should a diabetic foot ulcer be seen by a specialist?
Any open sore on the foot of a person with diabetes should be evaluated promptly, especially with drainage, odor, swelling, or color change. Early specialist care helps lower the risk of deeper infection.