What you may notice
A sore on the foot or toe may stay open, recur, discharge fluid or develop surrounding redness. Reduced sensation can mean that a serious wound is not very painful. A new wound in a person with diabetes deserves early attention.
A foot wound needs more than a visual check
What could cause it?
Poor arterial circulation, loss of protective sensation, pressure from footwear, infection and injury can all contribute, often together. Some lower-leg wounds relate to vein disease. Assessment checks blood supply, sensation, depth, infection and pressure points; blood tests, vascular tests or imaging may be needed.
When to contact a doctor
Contact a clinician promptly for a non-healing wound; a new diabetic foot wound should be reviewed urgently. Spreading redness, pus, fever, worsening swelling or black tissue needs urgent hospital assessment. A suddenly cold or weak foot, severe illness or confusion is an emergency: call 108. Do not cut dead tissue or apply tight compression yourself.
How interventional radiology may help
IR may restore blood flow when an arterial blockage is contributing to poor healing, using a balloon or other suitable endovascular treatment. Wound care, pressure relief, infection treatment, diabetes care and sometimes surgery remain essential. Opening an artery does not by itself guarantee healing or avoid every amputation.
Further reading: detailed assessment and treatment options
Patient information sources
References are in English.
Educational information, not a diagnosis. The causes listed are examples, not a complete list. Tests and treatment depend on your individual assessment.