Non-Healing Ulcers on the Feet or Legs – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Non-Healing Ulcers on the Feet or Legs – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment at Emirates Hospitals Group

At Emirates Hospitals Group, we provide expert care for non-healing ulcers on the feet or legs, which are open sores that fail to heal within a normal timeframe. These ulcers can lead to severe infections and complications if left untreated. Identifying the underlying cause and receiving appropriate medical treatment is crucial for promoting healing and preventing further complications.

Causes of Non-Healing Ulcers

Several conditions and factors can contribute to the development of chronic ulcers, including:

• Diabetes (Diabetic Foot Ulcers) – High blood sugar levels can damage nerves (neuropathy) and reduce circulation, delaying wound healing.
• Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) – Restricted blood flow due to narrowed arteries prevents oxygen and nutrients from reaching the affected area.
• Venous Insufficiency (Venous Ulcers) – Weak or damaged veins cause blood to pool in the legs, leading to swelling and ulcer formation.
• Pressure Sores (Decubitus Ulcers) – Prolonged pressure on specific areas of the foot or leg can cause skin and tissue breakdown, leading to ulcers.
• Infections – Bacterial or fungal infections can worsen ulcers and delay the healing process.
• Autoimmune Disorders – Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can impair the body’s ability to heal wounds.

Diagnosis of Non-Healing Ulcers

A comprehensive evaluation is essential to determine the cause and severity of the ulcer. Common diagnostic methods include:

• Physical Examination – A thorough assessment of the ulcer’s size, depth, and signs of infection.
• Medical History – Reviewing underlying health conditions such as diabetes, circulation disorders, or previous ulcers.
• Blood Tests – Used to check for infections, high blood sugar levels, or autoimmune conditions.
• Doppler Ultrasound – Evaluates blood flow in the legs to detect circulation issues.
• Wound Culture – Identifies bacterial infections that may be delaying healing.
• Tissue Biopsy – In some cases, a small tissue sample may be taken to rule out more serious conditions such as skin cancer.

Treatment for Non-Healing Ulcers

At Emirates Hospitals Group, our specialists develop personalized treatment plans based on the underlying cause of the ulcer. Common treatment options include:

• Advanced Wound Care – Cleaning, debridement (removal of dead tissue), and specialized dressings to promote healing.
• Medications – Antibiotics for infections, pain relievers, and anti-inflammatory drugs to manage symptoms.
• Compression Therapy – Helps improve blood circulation in venous ulcers.
• Diabetic Foot Care – Blood sugar control, specialized footwear, and regular monitoring to prevent complications.
• Surgical Interventions – In severe cases, procedures such as skin grafting, angioplasty (to restore blood flow), or vein treatments may be necessary.
• Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) – Delivers high levels of oxygen to enhance wound healing and fight infection.

Early intervention is key to preventing complications such as infection, tissue damage, or amputation. If you have a non-healing ulcer, consult our specialists at Emirates Hospitals Group for expert care and advanced treatment options.

Related Treatments

• Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)