What are foot and toe ulcers?An ulcer is an open wound or sore that will not heal or keeps returning. When you have ulcers on your feet and toes, it can be related to diabetes — specifically, a complication called neuropathy that causes you to lose feeling in your feet. A scrape, cut or puncture in your skin can turn into an ulcer, but you might not know it’s there if you have neuropathy.Ulcers can lead to infections. Sometimes, the infection won’t go away and you may need to have part of your foot or toe surgically removed (amputated). About 15% of people with diabetes will get a foot or toe ulcer. Around 14% to 24% of people with diabetes in the U.S. need an amputation after they get an ulcer.Who gets foot and toe ulcers?Foot and toe ulcers can happen to many people but might be more common in Black, Native American and Hispanic people. If you have an eye, kidney or heart disease related to diabetes, you’re also at a higher risk. About 15% of people with diabetes will get an ulcer, typically on the bottom of their foot. Some of those people will be hospitalized because of complications.You’re also at a higher risk of getting foot and toe ulcers if you have any of the following conditions:Blood circulation issues.Heart disease.Obesity.A foot condition like a bunion or hammertoe.Kidney disease.Lifestyle behaviors like using tobacco and alcohol can also increase your risk of developing ulcers on your feet or toes.