A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore or wound that occurs on the foot.Foot ulcers are a common complication of diabetes, forming as a result of skin tissue breaking down.  Careful inspection of the diabetic foot on a regular basis is one of the easiest and most effective measures for preventing foot complications.  

Common risk factors for amputation of the diabetic foot include peripheral neuropathy, structural foot deformity, ulceration, infection and peripheral vascular disease