Diabetic Foot Infection
Woundcare Table of Contents
Understanding Foot Infections: Causes & Risk Factors
Infections can be caused by various microorganisms, including fungi, viruses, and bacteria. Some common types of foot infections include:
• Athlete’s foot – A fungal infection that leads to itching, scaling, and cracked skin.
• Warts – A viral infection caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), leading to rough, thickened skin growths.
• Bacterial infections – The most common and potentially serious, often caused by Staphylococcus and Streptococcus bacteria.
How Do Foot Infections Develop?
Most bacterial infections require an entry point, such as:
✔️ Cuts, abrasions, or puncture wounds
✔️ Ulcers or open sores (common in diabetic patients)
✔️ Skin breakdown from chronic conditions like athlete’s foot
Staphylococcus and Streptococcus bacteria can rapidly spread and cause progressive tissue damage. In individuals with diabetes, infections can become even more severe, as multiple bacteria may be present simultaneously, increasing the risk of complications such as osteomyelitis (bone infection) or gangrene.
Why Early Detection Matters
Recognizing redness, swelling, warmth, pain, or drainage early can help prevent serious complications. If you have diabetes, poor circulation, or an open wound, seeking expert care quickly is essential.
🔎 Need expert foot infection treatment? Dr. Mark Reed at OC Center for Wound Healing & Foot Care specializes in diabetic foot infections, wound care, and advanced treatment options to prevent serious complications.
What is Cellulitis? (Skin Infection & Symptoms)
Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that spreads quickly and can become life-threatening if untreated. It is commonly caused by Streptococcus bacteria and often appears as:
✅ Red, swollen, and warm skin
✅ Tenderness or pain in the affected area
✅ Fever, chills, or fatigue
Who is at Risk?
People with diabetes, venous stasis (chronic leg swelling), or athlete’s foot are at a higher risk. Small skin cracks from fungal infections, soft corns, or puncture wounds can allow bacteria to enter, leading to deep infections.
Treatment for Cellulitis
• Oral or IV antibiotics
• Wound care and infection management
• Surgical drainage for abscesses or deep infections
⚠️ Seek medical attention immediately if you notice spreading redness, fever, or pus-filled abscesses.
Diabetic Foot Infections & Osteomyelitis (Bone Infections)
Diabetes increases the risk of foot infections, making even minor injuries dangerous. Untreated ulcers or wounds can lead to osteomyelitis, an infection that spreads to the bone.
Signs of Osteomyelitis
• Chronic wounds that do not heal
• Swelling, redness, or drainage from a wound
• Deep pain in the foot
How is it Diagnosed?
Dr. Mark Reed uses advanced imaging (MRI, CT scans, bone scans) to detect infections deep within the foot. If osteomyelitis is confirmed, treatment may include:
✔️ Surgery to remove infected bone
✔️ Long-term antibiotic therapy
✔️ Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for wound healing
Gangrene: When Foot Infections Become Critical
Gangrene occurs when blood flow to the foot is lost, leading to tissue death. It most commonly affects people with diabetes, peripheral artery disease (PAD), or poor circulation.
Symptoms of Gangrene:
🔴 Skin discoloration (black, blue, or purplish skin)
❄️ Cold or numb toes
⚠️ Foul-smelling wound or tissue loss
Emergency Gangrene Treatment:
• Surgical removal of dead tissue
• Bypass surgery to restore blood flow
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)
• IV antibiotics for infection control
🚨 If you have signs of gangrene, seek immediate medical attention to prevent amputation.
Gout vs. Infection
Gout is a condition caused by high uric acid levels in the blood, leading to painful inflammation of joints. Its symptoms—sudden pain, redness, and swelling—can mimic infection. It’s important to differentiate between the two, especially when symptoms involve a joint.
Sometimes, infections can occur without visible wounds, traveling through the bloodstream from distant sources like an abscessed tooth. A careful medical evaluation is essential for accurate diagnosis.
Antibiotic Prophylaxis and Special Considerations
Patients with joint replacements, pacemakers, or heart valve replacements must be cautious with any infections, as bacteria can travel through the bloodstream and infect these devices. Individuals with mitral valve prolapse are also at increased risk. Proactive antibiotic treatment may be recommended in certain cases to reduce the risk of complications.
Preventing Foot Infections: Essential Diabetic Foot Care Tips
✅ Inspect your feet daily for cuts, blisters, or ulcers
✅ Moisturize dry skin, but avoid applying lotion between toes
✅ Wear properly fitted shoes to prevent pressure sores
✅ Control blood sugar levels to improve circulation
✅ Visit a podiatrist regularly for foot exams
Comprehensive Infection Management
At the OC Center for Wound Healing & Foot Care, Dr. Mark Reed specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management of complex infections related to diabetes, poor circulation, and other chronic conditions. Early diagnosis and appropriate intervention are essential to prevent complications like ulceration, bone infection, and amputation.
If you notice signs of infection—don’t wait. Contact us today!
DISCLAIMER: MATERIAL ON THIS SITE IS BEING PROVIDED FOR EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATION PURPOSES AND IS NOT MEANT TO REPLACE THE DIAGNOSIS OR CARE PROVIDED BY YOUR OWN MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL. This information should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease or prescribing any medication. Visit a health care professional to proceed with any treatment for a health problem.