Patients suffering from diabetes, peripheral artery disease, poor circulation, or kidney disease should take particular care to monitor their feet for any signs of ulcer development. Ulcers are open sores or wounds that develop from tissue loss on the skin. Typically these sores can become very painful. Those with diabetes are at risk for developing neuropathy or nerve damage and are therefore more likely to develop ulcers without realizing. In extreme circumstances, infected ulcers may require the affected foot or leg to be amputated.

Daily inspection of the feet is key in preventing the formation of ulcers, and at first sign of ulcer or wound development, one should immediately contact his or her podiatrist. Ulcers are commonly found on the bottom of the feet. Depending on the severity of the ulcer, it may take weeks to months for foot ulcers to properly heal.