Healing time for digital ulcers

[Eden1234]

Just wanted to hear back from any of you suffering with digital ulcers to find out on average, how long it takes them take to heal? I’ve had anything from 6 weeks to 7 years and just curious to hear about anyone else’s experience. Thank you 😊

[Jacko37]

Hi, what kind of treatment are you on? I get ulcers every winter, they tend to last from November until May, some might heal and then new ones will pop up. Very painful and as you know makes doing anything very, very difficult. At the moment I've got what looks like chilblains on all my fingers with little ulcers. Have tried all sorts of medications over the years but none have made much difference, take care, X

[Eden1234 in reply to Jacko37]

Hi Jacko37,Thanks for your reply. I have been on sildenafil and Bosentan for a few years now after trying many others. I just never know when a new ulcer starts, how long it will last… it’s such a long and painful process. Even when they heal, I feel the area is damaged and never the same again. Haven’t had the chilblains before… that sounds horrible accompanied by little ulcers 😖 Really hope that doesn’t last long for you. Best wishes 😊

[Lyndabickley]

Hi EdenHealing is very variable for me usually ever all weeks, sometimes months. At present I’m battling with a granuloma which so far has been more that 12 months and is still bleeding and sometimes getting infected!

[Eden1234 in reply to Lyndabickley]

Hi Lyndabickley, sounds as you have a rough time with ulcers also. Horrible things. Sorry to hear about the granuloma. That’s been a long time and no signs of going away anytime soon! Ulcers and granulomas are bad enough without infection. I have an infected ulcer just now and it ranks pain to a new level! Hope you get some relief very soon x

[Midgebite21]

I’m afraid the answer to that question is very variable. Healing time will depend on the depth and size of the ulcer, location (is it subject to trauma that prolongs healing time eg if it’s on the foot it may get aggravated by weight bearing load or footwear) also if infection is present that will delay things also. A small shallow ulcer that’s not infected, on a non weigh bearing area will heal probably within a few weeks. Another variable could be the dressings used. I’m a podiatrist that’s worked in diabetic wound care for many years as well as having my own issues with scleroderma and digital ulcers in the past.

[Montaza]

Mine have taken over a year so far. Very debilitating and finger is never the same again. The sensitivity always remains. I've had part of one finger amputated as it developed into osteomyelitis which did not respond to IV antibiotics. Look after your fingers. Keep them as dry as possible. I'm using manuka honey at the moment under bandage. Bandage also protects finger as I keep knocking it on things which is unbearably painful as no doubt you know from your own experience. Good luck.