Which ulcer is commonly found on the plantar surface of the foot?

Which ulcer is commonly found on the plantar surface of the foot?

• A. Tunneling
• B. Pressure Ulcer
• C. Arterial Ulcer
• D. Neuropathic Ulcer

Answer: (C)

Neuropathic ulcers are classically found on the plantar surface of the foot, especially in people with diabetic neuropathy. Loss of protective sensation means that repetitive pressure and minor injuries on the weight-bearing sole go unnoticed, leading to painless ulcers under the metatarsal heads or other plantar areas. Good blood flow is usually present in neuropathic ulcers, but healing is impaired by ongoing pressure and skin changes, making offloading, proper footwear, and meticulous foot care essential. In contrast, arterial ulcers arise from poor blood supply and typically occur on toes or distal foot with signs of ischemia (pale, cool skin, diminished pulses) and are often painful, while pressure ulcers result from sustained pressure over bony prominences and are not specifically limited to the plantar surface.

Neuropathic ulcers are classically found on the plantar surface of the foot, especially in people with diabetic neuropathy. Loss of protective sensation means that repetitive pressure and minor injuries on the weight-bearing sole go unnoticed, leading to painless ulcers under the metatarsal heads or other plantar areas. Good blood flow is usually present in neuropathic ulcers, but healing is impaired by ongoing pressure and skin changes, making offloading, proper footwear, and meticulous foot care essential. In contrast, arterial ulcers arise from poor blood supply and typically occur on toes or distal foot with signs of ischemia (pale, cool skin, diminished pulses) and are often painful, while pressure ulcers result from sustained pressure over bony prominences and are not specifically limited to the plantar surface.