August 13, 2025
CoronaAs a podiatrist, I’ve seen how something that seems small can quickly become serious for my diabetic patients. A foot ulcer often begins as an ordinary corn or callus, but in diabetes, it can escalate with alarming speed — turning into a deep wound or infection that puts far more than just the skin at risk.
The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) reports that about 15% of people with diabetes will develop a foot ulcer at some point in their lives. Of those, 6% will need hospitalization due to infection or other complications. In the most severe cases, when an ulcer is left untreated and gangrene sets in, amputation may be the only option.
That’s why I cannot stress enough: early, specialized wound care is essential. Every day matters when you’re dealing with a diabetic foot ulcer. The sooner we treat it, the better our chances of preventing infection, avoiding hospitalization, and preserving your mobility.
At Corona Foot & Ankle, my team and I use advanced technology alongside personalized care plans to not only treat the current ulcer but also protect you from future problems. My goal is simple — to keep you active, independent, and living the life you love, without the fear of complications holding you back.
| Stage | Name | Description | Key Risks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Hyperkeratotic Lesion | Often starts as a callus or corn on the foot. Defined as an increased thickness of the outer skin layer (stratum corneum) due to chronic damage such as friction or harsh chemicals. At this stage, the lesion is closed. | Risk of skin breaking if untreated, progressing to Stage 2. |
| Stage 2 | Open Wound | Skin has broken, causing bleeding and creating an entry point for bacteria. The ulcer may deepen and enlarge. | High risk of infection; progression to Stage 3 without treatment. |
| Stage 3 | Deep Ulcer & Infection | Long-standing untreated ulcer with visible bone or tendon. Often associated with severe infection. | High infection rates; risk of osteomyelitis (bone infection) leading to bone breakdown. |
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Amputation Risk | Diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic lower extremity amputations in the U.S. Among diabetic patients who develop a foot ulcer, approximately 14–24% will require an amputation. |
| Immune System Impact | Consistently high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) weakens the immune system by impairing white blood cell function, increasing inflammation, damaging blood vessels, and causing nerve damage (neuropathy). |
| Circulatory & Nerve Damage | About 70% of people with diabetes experience circulatory problems and neuropathy, which reduce the body’s ability to fight infection and heal wounds. |
| Delayed Detection | Poor blood flow and neuropathy may prevent patients from feeling pain from a corn or callus. This can cause the ulcer to progress silently, skipping Stage 1 and advancing directly to Stage 2 or Stage 3 before medical help is sought. |
Once you have identified a foot ulcer, seek medical attention as soon as possible, regardless of how big or small it is. Contact your general practitioner or podiatrist. The faster the healing, the less chance of infection. In the meantime, soaking your foot for 5-10 minutes in Epsom salt water will help prevent or slow down bacterial infections until your appointment is available.
Corona Foot & Ankle is the premier wound care center in the Inland Empire due to its comprehensive, patient-centric methodology. We evaluate our patients thoroughly to examine the vascular, neurologic, dermatologic, and orthopedic dimensions to ensure that wounds are treated completely and reduce the risk of recurrence.
We utilize cutting-edge therapies for limb salvage to preserve the foot, focusing on skin and placental-based grafts, soft tissue expansion, and advanced debridement (necrotic skin removal) techniques. Corona Foot & Ankle is dedicated to preventing amputations and preserving mobility and quality of life.
If you suffer from a diabetic foot ulcer, don’t wait and contact Corona Foot & Ankle today for a consultation.
Stage 1 – Hyperkeratotic Lesion: A thickened patch of skin, such as a corn or callous, that is still closed but can worsen if untreated.
Stage 2 – Open Wound: Skin breaks open, increasing the risk of infection.
Stage 3 – Deep Ulcer and Infection: Bone or tendons may be visible, and infection risk is high, including the possibility of osteomyelitis.
People with diabetes often have poor circulation and nerve damage (neuropathy), which means they may not feel pain from foot injuries. High blood sugar also weakens the immune system, slows healing, and increases the risk of infection, making foot ulcers more common and more dangerous.
Seek medical attention from a doctor or podiatrist immediately, regardless of the ulcer’s size. Early treatment reduces the risk of infection and amputation. While waiting for your appointment, soak your foot in Epsom salt water for 5–10 minutes to help slow bacterial growth.
Have any questions about treatment? Feel free to make an appointment, Our team will reach you soon!
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