Diabetic Foot Wound Not Healing? Home Care Basics

Why diabetic foot wounds are slow to heal

Diabetic wounds are difficult to heal for three main reasons. First, long-term high blood sugar impairs peripheral circulation, so the wound receives less blood and nutrients. Second, diabetes often causes peripheral nerve damage, reducing sensation of pain and temperature in the feet, so injuries may go unnoticed. Third, a high-sugar environment makes bacterial growth easier, raising the risk of infection. Together, these factors can allow a minor wound to worsen without proper care.

Home care basics

Check your feet every day

Because nerve damage may mask a wound, check the soles of your feet and between your toes daily for new wounds, blisters, redness, swelling, or color changes. Use a mirror for hard-to-see areas or ask a family member to help.

Cleaning and dressing

• Before each dressing change, clean the wound with saline or a product recommended by your physician; avoid applying harsh antiseptics such as alcohol or povidone-iodine directly to the wound, as they can disturb healing tissue
• Use the dressing recommended by your care team and keep the wound moist but not wet
• Note any changes in wound size, color, or discharge so you can report them at your next visit

Reduce pressure and friction on the wound

Wear well-fitting shoes that do not press on the foot, and use offloading insoles or aids when needed to reduce pressure on the wound while walking—an important part of healing.

Blood sugar control is the foundation

Even with careful wound care, poorly controlled blood sugar slows healing. Work with your internal medicine or endocrinology physician to manage blood glucose—this is a key foundation for successful wound care.

Seek care promptly if you notice

• The wound is getting larger, or has not improved after two weeks
• Increasing redness, swelling, warmth, or pain around the wound
• More discharge, darker discharge, or an unpleasant odor
• Fever or chills

Any of these may indicate infection or worsening. Seek medical care promptly rather than continuing to watch at home.