I am asking this for my mom. She is a diabetic and she had a blister that popped. Now it is a big sore on her heel. Which is about a half dollar size in shape. My question, is there a way to help it heal any faster?. She’s had it for about 3 weeks now. Her doctor just said to keep a eye on it. And now shes having a hard time walking on here foot.

Dr. Joshua’s Answer

A wound on the heel is a serious matter in a diabetic. It should be properly examined and treated. Examination should reveal whether it goes all the way to the bone or not. If the bone is exposed, surgical treatment is usually needed. If possible, a plastic surgeon should take a look at it. Plastic surgical debridement (surgical cleaning) of the wound, and a surgical closure may be needed if the bone is exposed.

Also, the wound should be examined for dead (necrotic, black, hard) tissue, which should be removed. Measures should be taken to take all pressure off the heel, especially when sleeping. A ring-shaped cushion can be used to accomplish this. Local treatment with silver-based gels or bindings can be used to facilitate healing and control the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics are sometimes needed. The wound should be followed up closely, preferably by a nurse with experience in wound treatment. Blood circulation (pulse) should be evaluated.

Her doctor said to keep an eye on it; you’ve kept an eye on it and it’s not healing - I recommend that you talk to her doctor about the situation and have the wound looked at.

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