Diabetic foot problems can develop when diabetes damages the nerves, blood vessels, skin, and tissues of the feet. High blood sugar can affect sensation, circulation, and healing. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and slow-healing wounds. Diabetes increases infection risk because injuries may go unnoticed. Risk factors include long-term diabetes, poor blood sugar control, and wearing shoes that do not fit correctly.
Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage that affects the feet and lower legs. Reduced sensation can make it difficult to notice pain, heat, cold, pressure, or injuries. A person may walk on a blister or cut without realizing it, increasing the risk of an ulcer or infection. Peripheral vascular disease occurs when narrowed blood vessels reduce blood flow to the legs and feet. Poor circulation limits oxygen and nutrients needed for healing. Both conditions can damage the feet and increase the risk of ulcers, infection, and tissue damage.
Daily diabetic foot care is essential. This includes inspecting your feet for cuts, blisters, or skin changes. Wash them with warm water and mild soap, then dry them carefully. Use moisturizer for dry skin, but avoid applying it between the toes. Wear clean socks and shoes with adequate toe room, and avoid walking barefoot. Regular foot examinations can identify neuropathy, circulation problems, and early wounds.
Preventive care, blood sugar management, and prompt attention to injuries are important for diabetic foot health. A chiropodist can evaluate your feet, identify risk factors, and recommend treatment. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist to explore effective relief and management solutions and protect your feet from complications.
Diabetes can cause serious problems in the lower limbs if proper preventive measures are not taken and diabetic wound care is not performed. If you would like to learn more about caring for diabetic feet, please consult with one of the chiropodists from Complete Family Footcare & Therapy. Our clinicians can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility.
Diabetes can lead to a host of foot and ankle complications, including:
- Poor circulation
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Diabetic foot wounds and ulcers
- Infection
- Corns and calluses
- Dry, cracked skin
- Nail disorders
- Hammertoes
- Bunions
- Charcot foot
If you have diabetes, you must be vigilant of any changes in your foot health. This is best done through daily foot inspections. Using a mirror to help you if necessary, look for any:
- Cuts, scrapes, sores, or wounds
- Bruising or discoloration
- Swelling
- Rash
- Foul odor
- Nail changes
- Hair loss
- Warmth and inflammation
- Deformities
- Lower limb pain
- Strange sensations (numbness, tingling, burning, pins, and needles)
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in North York and Mississauga, ON .
