Why are the feet particularly vulnerable in people with diabetes?
How Diabetes Affects Your Feet
Understanding the early signs, daily care habits, and preventive measures that can help protect your feet and reduce the risk of serious complications.
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the entire body, and the feet are among the areas most commonly affected. Although foot problems may initially seem minor, changes in the feet of people with diabetes can lead to serious complications if they are not identified and treated in time.
How Does Diabetes Affect the Feet?
Prolonged high blood glucose levels can damage the nerves and blood vessels. These two factors are the main reasons why the feet of people with diabetes are particularly vulnerable.
Regular foot care and preventive examinations are essential for maintaining foot health and helping to prevent wounds, infections, and other complications.
Diabetic Neuropathy
One of the most common complications of diabetes is diabetic neuropathy—damage to the peripheral nerves. This can result in reduced or completely lost sensation in the feet.
A person may therefore not feel:
- A cut or scratch
- A blister caused by footwear
- A puncture or foreign object inside a shoe
- Heat or cold
- The early signs of inflammation
Reduced Circulation Slows Healing
Reduced blood flow
Diabetes can damage blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the feet. The tissues then receive less oxygen and fewer nutrients needed for normal healing.
Greater wound risk
Even a small wound may heal very slowly, increasing the risk of infection and the development of chronic wounds.
Increased Risk of Infection
High blood glucose levels encourage the growth of bacteria and fungi while also weakening the body’s immune response.
As a result, even minor injuries may develop into serious infections requiring prolonged treatment. In severe cases, untreated infections can lead to diabetic foot ulcers and even the amputation of part of the foot.
What Is Diabetic Foot?
Diabetic foot is a term used to describe a group of changes caused by a combination of nerve damage, poor circulation, and an increased susceptibility to infection.
The most common signs include:
- Numbness or tingling in the feet
- A burning sensation or pain
- Dry and cracked skin
- Foot deformities
- Thickened skin and corns
- Wounds that are slow to heal
- Changes in the colour of the skin or nails
How Should People with Diabetes Care for Their Feet?
Good daily foot care can help prevent many common problems. The following measures are recommended:
- Inspect the feet every day, including the areas between the toes.
- Wash the feet with lukewarm water and dry them carefully.
- Moisturise the skin regularly, but avoid applying cream between the toes.
- Wear comfortable footwear that does not create pressure or friction.
- Change socks every day and choose soft, comfortable materials.
- Cut toenails straight across to help prevent ingrown nails.
- Never walk barefoot, even when you are at home.
When Should Professional Help Be Sought?
People with diabetes should immediately contact a doctor or qualified foot-care specialist if they notice:
- A wound that is not healing
- Redness or swelling
- Discharge from a wound
- A change in skin colour
- An unpleasant odour
- Sudden pain or a complete loss of sensation
Prevention Is the Best Form of Treatment
Most complications associated with diabetic foot can be prevented through regular examinations, good blood glucose control, and proper foot care.
Foot care should be an essential part of the daily routine of every person living with diabetes. Just a few minutes each day can help identify changes early, prevent serious health consequences, and preserve quality of life.