Common Foot Problems in People with Diabetes
Foot problems with diabetes can be serious and require close attention. Diabetes, while manageable, can significantly impact your foot health. Elevated blood glucose can impair nerve function and decrease circulation in your limbs, particularly your feet. This makes them more vulnerable to a range of issues. In this article, we will delve into some of the most common foot problems with diabetes and what you can do about them.
Nerve damage (Peripheral Neuropathy)
Nerve deterioration is a key issue, potentially causing a lack of sensation in the feet. You might not feel a cut, blister, or sore. This is dangerous because these minor injuries can quickly become serious infections.
Reduced blood flow (Peripheral Arterial Disease - PAD)
Diabetes can also narrow blood vessels, reducing blood flow to your feet. Reduced blood flow impedes wound healing, elevating the likelihood of infections and potential future complications.
Diabetic foot ulcers: A serious concern
Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores that commonly occur on the bottom of the foot. They often develop due to unnoticed injuries. Because of nerve damage, you may not feel the pain, and poor circulation hinders healing. If ulcers remain untreated, they may develop serious infections and, in extreme cases, necessitate amputation.
Foot infections in diabetes: Fighting back
Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores that commonly occur on the bottom of the foot. They often develop due to unnoticed injuries. Because of nerve damage, you may not feel the pain, and poor circulation hinders healing. If ulcers remain untreated, they may develop serious infections and, in extreme cases, necessitate amputation.
Foot problems with diabetes: What’s causing foot pain?
Foot pain in diabetes can arise from various issues. Nerve damage can cause burning, tingling, or stabbing pain. Poor circulation can lead to cramping, especially during exercise. Other causes include calluses, corns, and fungal infections.
Calluses and Corns: Common and problematic
Consistent pressure or friction leads to the formation of calluses and corns, which are dense, thickened patches of skin. In people with diabetes, they can become a breeding ground for infections.
These are common foot problems .
Fungal infections: Athlete's foot and nail fungus
Fungal infections like athlete’s foot and nail fungus are more common in people with diabetes. Warm and humid conditions promote the growth of these infections significantly, which may cause the skin to split and create exposed areas.
Dry, cracked skin: A gateway to infection
When blood sugar is consistently high, it can induce dryness and cracking of the skin on the feet. These cracks provide an entry point for bacteria, increasing the risk of infection.
Ingrown toenails: A small problem, big risk
A toenail is considered ingrown when its side or corner pushes into the nearby skin. This can cause pain, redness, and swelling. For people with diabetes, it can lead to a serious infection.
Maintaining good diabetic foot care
- Daily Inspection: Do a daily foot evaluation, observing for any skin breaks, fluid-filled sacks, red areas, or any areas of inflation.
- Daily foot hygiene: Use a gentle cleanser and warm water to wash your feet. Dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.
- Moisturise: Apply a moisturising cream to prevent dry, cracked skin. Avoid moisturising between the toes.
- Trim Toenails Carefully: To avoid complications, trim your toenails straight and gently file the edges.
- Wear Proper Footwear: Wear shoes that are well-fitting and supportive. Avoid high heels and tight shoes.
- Protect Your Feet: Never walk barefoot, even indoors.
- Control Blood Sugar: Keeping blood glucose within a healthy range greatly lowers the probability of developing complications.
- Regular Checkups: Consult your healthcare provider in regular time-intervals to avoid complications.
For people having diabetes, recognising the significance of proper foot care is essential. Engaging in preventative actions can reduce the risk of severe health consequences significantly. If you’re concerned about any foot issues, don’t hesitate to seek professional help..
Schedule an appointment with Dr Ehab Kheir who is an esteemed consultant trauma and orthopedic surgeon specialising in foot and ankle surgery.
FAQ
Early signs include numbness, tingling, pain, changes in skin colour or temperature, and slow-healing sores.
You should check your feet daily.
Yes, reduced blood flow can cause your feet to feel cold.
Clean the wound with gentle soap and water, use a disinfectant, and then protect it with a clean dressing. Monitor it closely for signs of infection. If it doesn’t heal quickly, consult a healthcare provider.
Yes, your healthcare provider may recommend therapeutic shoes or inserts to provide extra support and protection.
