What does the initial stage of a diabetic foot ulcers look like?

Foot ulcer: Often the first sign is a callus with blood in it. This is an area under pressure that is beginning to break down.

They start: Off as callouses often, but under the callous a hole is present.

Redness, callus.: A diabetic foot wound never looks exactly the same from person to person, but generally in the beginning stages there is either a large callus with discoloration underneath, an area of redness that does not blanch with pressure to the area, or a blister. All of these should be checked out by your doctor immediately. Don't wait; they can be very serious.

Have it evaluated.: A diabetic foot ulcer is best diagnosed with a physical exam. Your physician will ask you to remove your shoes in order to inspect your feet. They will look for redness, calluses, bruising, blistering, swelling, and for open sores. Sometimes the ulcer may be hidden and will be discovered following the debridement of calluses or the deroofing of blisters.