How can one differentiate between diabetic foot ulcers and venous leg ulcers?

Diabetic and venous ulcers often appear similar. However, a careful physical examination helps to differentiate between the two and provide appropriate wound care.

Venous leg ulcers are usually painful that develop on the lower leg due to chronic venous insufficiency, and the diabetic ulcers, because of the neuropathy, may be painless. The diabetic ulcer is painless, but it is deep. It may be present along the pressure points.

Patients with diabetes and poor blood glucose control are at a higher risk for diabetic foot ulcers, while venous leg ulcers are associated with underlying venous insufficiency or other conditions that impair blood flow to the legs.

Through this video Prof (Dr) Riju from Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Kochi, Kerala, will explain how one can differentiate between diabetic foot ulcers and venous leg ulcers.