Foot Ulcer

Foot Ulcer and Wound Treatment in Fort Worth & Burleson, TX

Foot ulcers are open wounds that can develop due to pressure, poor circulation, and loss of sensation. Without prompt treatment, these wounds can lead to infection and more serious complications.

Dr. Dalton Ryba, DPM is a dual board-certified podiatrist and foot & ankle surgeon providing comprehensive diabetic wound care in Fort Worth and Burleson, Texas. Treatment focuses on early intervention, structured wound care, and limb preservation.

What is a Foot Ulcer?

A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore that typically develops on the bottom of the foot.

These wounds often occur when increased pressure is combined with reduced sensation, allowing injury to go unnoticed, or by way of poor circulation.

If not treated appropriately, ulcers can worsen and lead to infection or deeper tissue involvement.

What Are The Common Symptoms?

Open wound on the foot
Drainage or odor
Redness or swelling
Pain (may be minimal due to neuropathy)
Delayed healing
Some patients may not feel pain despite significant tissue damage.

What Are The Causes And Risk Factors?

Foot ulcers typically develop due to a combination of factors.

Peripheral neuropathy – loss of protective sensation
Poor circulation – impaired healing
Structural deformity – increased pressure points
Repetitive pressure or callus formation
Increased infection risk

Even minor skin breakdown can progress quickly if not treated.

What Are The Treatment Options?

Treatment focuses on healing the wound and preventing progression.

Regular wound debridement
Offloading to reduce pressure
Wound dressings and local care
Infection management
Blood sugar optimization

Consistent follow-up is critical for healing.

Surgical treatment may be necessary in certain cases.

Surgical offloading procedures
Correction of underlying deformity
Drainage or treatment of infection
Partial amputation when necessary to control infection

The goal is always to preserve as much function as possible.

What Is The Recovery Timeline?

Healing time varies depending on the size of the wound and overall health.

Smaller wounds may heal within weeks
More complex wounds may take longer and require ongoing care
Close monitoring is essential to ensure proper healing

Early treatment improves outcomes significantly.

When To See A Specialist?

Open wound on the foot
Redness, swelling, or warmth
Drainage or foul odor
Fever or signs of infection
Diabetic foot wounds should be evaluated promptly.

Dr. Ryba sees patients in Fort Worth and Burleson, TX through
Lonestar Orthopaedic and Spine Specialists, PLLC.

When scheduling, please request an appointment specifically with Dr. Dalton Ryba, DPM.