Foot problems are among the most common complications of diabetes, with the American Diabetes Association reporting that roughly 1 in 5 diabetes-related hospital visits are due to foot issues.
Foot problems linked to diabetes
Diabetes can impact your feet in two major ways: by reducing blood flow, which slows healing, and by damaging nerves, which can dull sensation. This means minor cuts, blisters, or injuries may go unnoticed, potentially developing into serious ulcers or infections.
1. Changes in foot shape and movement: Diabetes can weaken the muscles in your feet and tighten the tendons, which may cause structural changes such as bent toes (hammer or claw toes), a stiff big toe, flat or unstable feet, and tight ankles. These alterations shift pressure to specific areas of the foot, increasing the risk of corns, calluses, and ulcers.
2. Poor Blood Flow: Diabetes can cause the blood vessels in the legs and feet to narrow, reducing circulation. This can slow wound healing, make your feet feel cold, and cause leg pain while walking. In severe cases, inadequate blood flow may result in serious tissue damage.
3. Nerve Damage (Diabetic Neuropathy): Around half of people with diabetes experience some form of nerve damage, often starting in the feet. It can cause numbness, tingling, burning sensations, loss of feeling, and weakened foot muscles. Reduced sensation makes it easy to overlook minor injuries, such as cuts or blisters, which can develop into serious wounds if left untreated.
4. Dry, Fragile Skin: Diabetes can reduce the natural moisture in your feet, leading to dry, cracked, and fragile skin. This makes it easier for bacteria and germs to enter, increasing the risk of infection. The skin also becomes thinner and weaker, so even minor cuts and sores may take longer to heal and can develop into more serious wounds.
5. Charcot foot: In some people with nerve damage, the bones and joints of the foot become weak and may collapse. This leads to swelling, redness, and foot deformity, called Charcot foot. Without early treatment, it can cause ulcers and even lead to amputation.
How to Take Care of Your Feet When You Have Diabetes
One of the best ways to protect your feet is to keep your blood sugar under good control and follow simple daily foot-care habits. Small steps every day can prevent big problems later.
1. Practice Daily Footcare
Wash your feet daily using warm water and mild soap.
Dry your feet well, especially between the toes, and apply a light moisturiser to keep the skin soft.
Never walk barefoot, even at home.
2. Take Care of Your Toenails: Long or thick nails can rub against neighbouring toes, causing sores or infections. Trim your toenails after bathing, when they are soft, cutting straight across and gently filing the edges. Avoid cutting into the corners to prevent ingrown nails, and don’t trim cuticles or use sharp tools under your nails.
3. Wear the right footwear
Wear clean, soft socks and well-fitting shoes or slippers.
Shoes should not pinch, rub, or squeeze your toes.
If your shoes are uncomfortable, ask your doctor about special diabetic footwear or insoles.
4. Keep Your Feet Active: Regular movement, like walking or gentle exercises, improves blood circulation in your feet and legs. Wear supportive shoes, avoid walking on open sores, elevate your feet when sitting, and wiggle your toes several times a day to keep blood flowing.
5. Treat small problems early: Look for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or sores regularly. Seek proper medical assistance and never try to treat corns, calluses, or nail problems on your own.
6. Keep a Regular Check: Every six months, examine your feet for warning signs such as changes in sensation, poor circulation, structural abnormalities, or hygiene concerns. Consult your doctor if necessary.
When to See Your Doctor
See your regular doctor if you notice any of the following:
Pain, tingling, numbness, or burning in your feet.
Cramping in calves, thighs, or buttocks during activity.
Loss of sensation to heat or cold.
Changes in foot shape, color, or temperature.
Dry, cracked skin or sudden swelling.
Thick, yellow, ingrown, or infected toenails.
Blisters, sores, ulcers, or corns that won’t heal.
A hot, red foot (possible Charcot foot).
Early medical attention can help prevent minor foot problems from turning into serious complications.