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Our Approach to Treating

Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Open sores that develop on the foot, called ulcers, are among the most common complications of diabetes. Ulcers may form as the result of a minor scrape or cut, an ingrown toenail, or a blister. They can also develop if changes in the shape of the foot lead to uneven distribution of the body’s weight during movement, placing excess stress on one part of the foot.

Without treatment, even a small foot blister can become a large ulcer in a matter of days. People with diabetes also often have lower extremity arterial disease, a condition that reduces blood flow. This can slow the rate at which an ulcer heals.

At NYU Langone, our specialists in wound care, vascular surgery, and orthopedic surgery work together to provide care that addresses all aspects of your health. They offer treatment to help you heal as quickly as possible and prevent new ulcers from forming.

Treatment for Diabetic Foot Ulcers

NYU Langone’s Helen L. and Martin S. Kimmel Hyperbaric and Advanced Wound Healing Center is the only facility in Manhattan that offers monoplace chamber hyperbaric oxygen therapy. People with diabetic foot ulcers who do not respond to other treatments may find that pure oxygen accelerates the healing process. If healing is slowed due to reduced blood flow, our vascular surgeons at the Limb Salvage and Restoration Center can perform a minimally invasive procedure to improve circulation.

If misalignment of the foot contributes to the development of ulcers, our orthopedic surgeons at the Diabetic Foot and Ankle Center may recommend custom orthotic shoe inserts or surgery to correct it.