Diabetic Foot Ulcer: Causes, Treatment and Prevention | DPM

Quick answer: Treatment for diabetic foot ulcer causes treatment prevention follows a stepwise approach: 1) conservative care first (rest, ice, supportive footwear, OTC anti-inflammatories), 2) physical therapy and targeted exercises, 3) in-office treatments (injections, custom orthotics) if conservative fails at 4-6 weeks, 4) surgery for refractory cases. Most patients resolve at step 1 or 2. Book online in about a minute — or call (810) 206-1402.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon · Last reviewed: April 2026 · Editorial Policy

MICHIGAN PODIATRIST INSIGHT

The most important clinical decision with Diabetic Foot Ulcer Causes Treatment Prevention isn’t which treatment to start with — it’s identifying the correct subtype. That changes everything. Call (810) 206-1402.

Quick Answer

Diabetic foot ulcers form where pressure meets an insensate foot. Treatment requires offloading, debridement and adequate circulation; prevention rests on daily inspection and proper footwear. Same-week appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Township: (810) 206-1402.

Watch: Dr. Tom Biernacki explains the topic in detail · Subscribe to Michigan Foot Doctors on YouTube

✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026

Diabetic Foot Ulcer: Causes, Treatment & Prevention

diabetic wound care at Balance Foot & Ankle.– /wp:heading –>

Diabetic Foot Ulcer: Causes, Treatment & Prevention

 

🦶 Diabetes can cause Diabetic Foot Ulcers, Foot Wounds, Diabetic Foot Infections and Diabetic Foot Amputation. STOP The PAIN!🦶

We go over diabetic foot ulcer causes, diabetic foot ulcer treatment and diabetic foot ulcer healing! Full Video: https://youtu.be/vkw22d8ZAe0

Related Videos:
Diabetic Neuropathy [Peripheral Neuropathy]: https://youtu.be/E_0ALrqYUSM
Reverse Clogged Arteries: https://youtu.be/oNiZo0nO048
How to know your heart is not well: https://youtu.be/qx4QAX2L4Fo
Top 28 Diabetes Symptoms: https://youtu.be/8U9b36D43xI
How to Treat a Diabetic Foot Ulcer [Early Signs, Causes & Treatment] https://youtu.be/EsQdGpuA9eA
Numbness, Burning, or Tingling Foot Pain: https://youtu.be/Pdp9HLH9Gsg

Reverse 90% of Diabetes with this Diet: https://youtu.be/qCQW9e7CrEk
Best Diabetic Foods: https://youtu.be/jLID96VA7j0
Best Diabetes Drink: https://youtu.be/YOFrlc10E4E
10 Best Diabetic Vitamins: https://youtu.be/sPihveT3oc0

Athlete’s Foot Fungus Treatment: https://youtu.be/PKT_slq6M54
Skin Problem Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgKlhrVDi6VpMheF-LgcG0fuhomiF64Kt
Toenail Fungus Treatment: https://youtu.be/Uq30wM7YSAM

👉 Shoes 👈
Best Shoes:
https://www.michiganfootdoctors.com/podiatrist-recommended-shoes/

Best Orthotics:
https://www.michiganfootdoctors.com/best-orthotic-shoes

Best Products: https://www.michiganfootdoctors.com/recommended-foot-doctor-products///

📢Come See Us in Detroit, Michigan, Berkley Michigan; Bloomfield Township, Michigan, Lansing Michigan; and Grand Blanc Michigan📢

If you are in Michigan, consider seeing us at our clinic: https://www.michiganfootdoctors.com/.
https://g.page/r/CaxJ9b-O6o27EAE

DISCLAIMER:
Dr. Tomasz Biernacki received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Kent State College of Podiatric Medicine in 2013; he completed his Surgical Reconstructive Foot Surgery & Podiatric Medicine Residency in 2017; he completed 2x traveling Fellowships in Diabetic Surgery, Skin Grafting & Nerve Surgery. He is double board certified in Podiatric Medicine and Foot & Ankle Surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a licensed podiatrist & surgeon in Michigan. This video should not be used to self-diagnose and is not a substitute for a medical exam, cure, treatment, diagnosis, prescription, or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Biernacki and you. It would be best to not change your health regimen or diet before consulting a physician and obtaining a medical exam & diagnosis. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

At Balance Foot & Ankle, every Michigan patient receives expert podiatric care delivered with genuine attention to their individual needs and goals. Our podiatrists take time to explain diagnoses clearly, discuss all treatment options honestly, and follow up to ensure treatments are working effectively. We serve patients from Livingston and Oakland counties and the broader Southeast Michigan region from our Howell office at 4330 E Grand River and our Bloomfield Township office at 43494 Woodward Ave #208. New patients are always welcome — call (810) 206-1402 to schedule today.

Michigan patients can count on Balance Foot & Ankle for the full range of podiatric services delivered with clinical excellence and genuine patient care. Whether your concern is a common foot condition that has been bothering you for years or an acute injury that needs prompt attention, our team in Howell and Bloomfield Township is ready to help. We offer in-office diagnostics, evidence-based conservative treatment, and surgical correction when needed — all within a practice that values your time, respects your preferences, and communicates clearly throughout the care process. Call us at (810) 206-1402 to take the first step toward better foot health.

Our podiatric team brings decades of combined clinical experience to every patient encounter. We stay current with the latest evidence in podiatric medicine and surgery, applying emerging treatments — including EPAT shockwave therapy, MLS laser, PRP injection, and minimally invasive surgical techniques — where the evidence supports their use for specific conditions. Michigan patients can trust that the treatment recommendations they receive at Balance Foot & Ankle reflect the current standard of care, not outdated approaches. Call (810) 206-1402 to schedule at our Howell or Bloomfield Township office.

Insurance questions are easy to address before you schedule — call Balance Foot & Ankle at (810) 206-1402 and our insurance team will verify your specific plan’s coverage for the services you need. We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, Priority Health, HAP, and Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans. Our verification process identifies your copay, deductible status, and any prior authorization requirements in advance, so you can make an informed scheduling decision. Both our Howell and Bloomfield Township locations offer convenient daytime and early morning appointment times to fit busy schedules.


Related Treatment Guides

We welcome new patients at both locations. Balance Foot & Ankle accepts most Michigan insurance plans — call (810) 206-1402 today.

Insurance Accepted

BCBS · Medicare · Aetna · Cigna · United Healthcare · HAP · Priority Health · Humana · View All →

Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?

Same-week appointments available at both locations.

Book Your Appointment

(810) 206-1402

In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

When conservative care isn’t enough, Dr. Tom Biernacki and the team at Balance Foot & Ankle offer advanced, same-day options — including Diabetic Foot Care Michigan at our Howell and Bloomfield Township clinics.

Same-day appointments available. Call (810) 206-1402 or book online.

Pros & Cons of Conservative Care for diabetic foot care

Advantages

  • ✓ Daily inspection prevents amputation
  • ✓ Most insurance covers DME
  • ✓ Custom orthotics help

Considerations

  • ✗ Daily commitment required
  • ✗ Slow wound healing
  • ✗ Charcot risk if neuropathy

Dr. Tom’s Recommended Products for diabetic foot care

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we use with patients.

Drew Moonwalker Diabetic Shoe Dr. Tom’s Pick

Best for: Medicare-covered diabetic footwear

Check Price on Amazon

Diabetic Compression Socks Dr. Tom’s Pick

Best for: Daily protection + circulation

Check Price on Amazon

Hibiclens Antiseptic Dr. Tom’s Pick

Best for: Wound prep + paronychia care

Check Price on Amazon

Magnifying Mirror with Light Dr. Tom’s Pick

Best for: Daily foot inspection

Check Price on Amazon

Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?

Same-day appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Township. Most insurance accepted. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM & team.

Book Today — Same-Day Appointments Available

Call Now: (810) 206-1402

About Your Care Team at Balance Foot & Ankle

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon. Specializes in conservative-first care, minimally invasive bunion surgery, and complex reconstruction.

Dr. Carl Jay, DPM · Accepting new patients. Specializes in sports medicine, athletic injuries, and routine podiatric care.

Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM, AACFAS · Accepting new patients. Specializes in surgical reconstruction and pediatric podiatry.

Locations: 4330 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI 48843 · 43494 Woodward Ave Suite 208, Bloomfield Township, MI 48302

Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · (810) 206-1402

More questions patients ask

What causes diabetic foot ulcers?

Diabetic foot ulcers are caused by the combination of peripheral neuropathy (lost protective sensation), peripheral arterial disease (poor circulation), and skin or foot deformity. Minor injuries go unnoticed and worsen into ulcers due to impaired healing. Balance Foot & Ankle provides comprehensive diabetic foot ulcer prevention and treatment at our Howell and Bloomfield Township offices. Call (810) 206-1402.

How are diabetic foot ulcers treated?

Treatment involves wound debridement, appropriate wound dressings (moist healing environment), offloading pressure with specialized footwear or total contact casting, antibiotic therapy for infection, blood sugar optimization, and sometimes surgical intervention for deep tissue involvement. Balance Foot & Ankle manages diabetic wounds at every stage.

Can diabetic foot ulcers be prevented?

Yes — prevention includes daily foot inspection, proper moisturization (not between toes), diabetic footwear and custom orthotics, blood sugar control, smoking cessation, regular podiatric check-ups, and prompt attention to any skin changes. Balance Foot & Ankle at 4330 E Grand River, Howell and 43494 Woodward Ave #208, Bloomfield Township provides preventive diabetic foot care.

What is the most important thing a diabetic can do to prevent foot ulcers?

Daily foot inspection — checking every surface including between toes — is the single most important preventive measure. Catching problems early (blisters, redness, cracks) before they become ulcers is essential. Balance Foot & Ankle educates all diabetic patients on proper foot inspection technique. Call (810) 206-1402.

When should a diabetic patient see a podiatrist for a foot wound?

Any break in the skin of a diabetic foot — no matter how small — requires same-day or next-day evaluation. Diabetic wounds can deteriorate rapidly. Do not wait to see if it heals on its own. Contact Balance Foot & Ankle immediately at (810) 206-1402 or visit 4330 E Grand River, Howell or 43494 Woodward Ave #208, Bloomfield Township.

How often should diabetics check their feet?

Daily self-exams plus professional exams annually (or every 3-6 months for neuropathy/PAD patients). Dr. Biernacki provides comprehensive diabetic foot care programs.

Why do diabetics have foot problems?

Diabetes causes nerve damage, reduced blood flow, and impaired immunity. Injuries go unnoticed and heal slowly. ~15% of diabetics develop ulcers. Prevention through regular podiatric care is essential.

What are signs of diabetic neuropathy?

Tingling, burning, numbness starting in toes, sensitivity to touch, muscle weakness, balance problems. Schedule evaluation at 810-206-1402 for nerve testing and management.

Still have a question about coverage or cost? Book online and we will check your benefits before your visit: Book in Howell · Book in Bloomfield Township. Prefer to talk it through first? Call (810) 206-1402.

Balance Foot & Ankle surgeons are affiliated with Trinity Health Michigan, Corewell Health, and Henry Ford Health — three of Michigan’s largest health systems.