How Diabetes Impacts Your Feet and What You Can Do About It

Diabetes brings a host of complications, with foot health being one of the most commonly affected areas. High blood sugar levels can impair circulation, damage nerves, and increase the risk of infections, making diabetic foot care an essential part of managing the condition. Understanding how diabetes impacts your feet and knowing the preventative steps to take can reduce complications and help keep your feet healthy.

The Impact of Diabetes on Foot Health

Diabetes affects the feet in various ways, primarily through two major complications: nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor blood circulation. These effects can make the feet vulnerable to injuries, infections, and other issues that may lead to severe complications if not treated promptly.

1. Diabetic Neuropathy: Nerve Damage

High blood sugar levels over time can damage the nerves, particularly in the feet. This is known as diabetic neuropathy. Neuropathy can cause numbness, tingling, or a loss of sensation, meaning you might not feel small injuries like cuts or blisters, allowing them to worsen without immediate notice.

•Symptoms: Numbness, tingling, burning sensations, or complete loss of feeling in the feet.

•Risks: Since neuropathy prevents pain detection, even minor injuries can turn into severe infections if left untreated.

2. Poor Circulation and Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

Diabetes also impacts blood vessels, leading to poor circulation and an increased risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD). PAD can restrict blood flow to the feet, slowing down the healing process for any injuries or sores. Poor circulation can result in severe consequences, such as foot ulcers and an increased risk of infection.

•Symptoms: Cold feet, slow healing of wounds, and pain in the legs or feet when walking.

•Risks: Restricted blood flow can lead to tissue death, making infections harder to fight off and heal, especially in the lower extremities.

Common Diabetic Foot Problems

Diabetes can lead to specific foot issues that might otherwise be rare in those without the condition. Some of the most common foot issues among diabetics include:

1. Foot Ulcers: Open sores or ulcers on the feet can develop from minor cuts, calluses, or pressure points. Because of poor healing and circulation, these sores can become infected.

2. Infections: Even minor injuries can escalate quickly in diabetic individuals. Infections are often more serious due to the body’s limited ability to fight bacteria effectively.

3. Calluses and Corns: People with diabetes are more prone to developing calluses, which can lead to ulcers if not treated properly. Nerve damage also prevents proper weight distribution, which leads to areas of higher pressure on the feet.

4. Hammertoes and Bunions: These common foot deformities, caused by muscle imbalances due to nerve damage, can make it difficult to wear regular shoes and increase the risk of sores or blisters.

5. Amputation: In extreme cases, untreated infections or poor circulation can lead to gangrene (tissue death), making amputation necessary to prevent further spread.

Diabetic Foot Care Tips: Preventative Measures

Keeping your feet healthy with diabetes requires consistent and diligent care. Here are key steps to help prevent issues before they arise.

1. Perform Daily Foot Checks

Daily self-inspection is essential. Examine your feet closely for any cuts, blisters, swelling, or redness. Use a mirror if necessary to check the bottoms of your feet, or ask a loved one to help.

•Tip: Pay special attention to areas between your toes and on the heels, where issues are common.

•Reminder: If you notice any unusual symptoms, consult your podiatrist immediately.

2. Wash and Moisturize Your Feet Daily

Proper hygiene can prevent bacterial growth and infections. Wash your feet daily with warm (not hot) water and mild soap. After washing, dry your feet carefully, especially between the toes, where moisture can lead to fungal infections.

•Tip: Apply a moisturizer to prevent dry skin, but avoid moisturizing between the toes to prevent fungal growth.

3. Trim Toenails Carefully

Toenail care is vital to prevent ingrown toenails, which can lead to infections. Trim your nails straight across rather than rounding them at the edges, and avoid cutting them too short.

•Tip: If you have trouble trimming your nails, consult a podiatrist for professional nail care.

4. Wear Diabetic-Friendly Footwear

The right footwear can prevent blisters, calluses, and other injuries. Choose diabetic-friendly shoes that offer a wide toe box, cushioning, and proper arch support.

•Tip: Avoid tight-fitting shoes or high heels, which can lead to pressure points and blisters.

•Recommendation: Custom orthotic insoles can also help with pressure distribution, especially if you have specific foot deformities.

5. Control Your Blood Sugar Levels

Proper blood sugar control can slow or prevent the progression of nerve and blood vessel damage. Aim to follow a diabetes-friendly diet, engage in regular physical activity, and monitor blood glucose levels closely.

•Tip: Talk to your healthcare provider about strategies for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

6. Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise improves circulation and promotes overall health. Activities like walking, swimming, and cycling can increase blood flow to the feet, which is especially beneficial for diabetics experiencing poor circulation.

•Tip: Always check your feet for injuries before and after exercise. Choose low-impact activities if you’re prone to foot injuries.

7. Avoid Going Barefoot

Going barefoot increases the risk of cuts, scrapes, and punctures, especially if you have neuropathy. Always wear shoes or supportive slippers, even at home, to protect your feet from injury.

•Tip: Keep indoor footwear with a soft sole to protect your feet without compromising comfort.

8. Schedule Regular Podiatry Checkups

Regular visits to a podiatrist can help identify and treat issues early. They can assist with nail care, remove calluses, and provide custom orthotics to alleviate pressure.

•Tip: Schedule at least one podiatry appointment per year, more frequently if you notice any foot issues.

What to Do If You Notice a Problem

Despite taking preventative measures, sometimes foot problems may still arise. If you notice an injury, blister, or sore, avoid self-treatment—especially if you have diabetic neuropathy, which may mask pain levels.

1. Disinfect and Cover: For minor cuts, clean the wound with an antiseptic and apply a sterile bandage.

2. Avoid Walking on Injured Feet: Reduce weight-bearing activities until the injury heals. Elevate the foot if there is swelling.

3. Seek Professional Help: Visit your podiatrist for proper evaluation and treatment if you notice any signs of infection or if the wound does not heal.

Long-Term Benefits of Diabetic Foot Care

Proactive foot care can reduce the risk of serious complications, including infections and amputation. By following the steps outlined above, diabetic individuals can maintain mobility, avoid prolonged treatments, and continue living an active lifestyle.

At Bellagio Foot & Ankle, we’re dedicated to supporting diabetic patients with comprehensive foot care services. Our team is here to help you with routine checkups, nail care, and any treatment needs to ensure your feet stay healthy. Schedule an appointment with us to create a personalized diabetic foot care plan that fits your needs, so you can continue living a comfortable, active, and fulfilling life.