Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. One of the most common complications of diabetes is diabetic foot, which can lead to severe pain, and in some cases, amputation.

Diabetic foot is caused by nerve damage, poor blood flow, and infections that are often the result of high blood sugar levels.

What is Diabetic Foot?

Diabetic foot is a term used to describe various foot pathologies related to diabetes. The most common symptoms of diabetic foot include pain or numbness in the feet, as well as dry or cracked skin, ulcers, and wounds that won’t heal.

These symptoms are often the result of nerve damage, poor blood flow, and infections in the feet.

How Does Diabetes Cause Diabetic Foot?

Diabetes can cause nerve damage in the feet, a condition known as neuropathy. Neuropathy can cause a loss of sensation in the feet, making it difficult to feel pain, heat, or cold.

This can lead to foot injuries going unnoticed, leaving the wound open to infections and delaying treatment.

In addition to nerve damage, diabetes can also cause poor blood circulation in the feet, which can result in foot ulcers.

High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels, leading to narrowed or blocked arteries, which can restrict blood flow to the feet.

Finally, high blood sugar levels can also weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections.

When an infection develops in the foot, it can spread quickly and become severe, leading to gangrene and possibly amputation of the foot or leg.

What are the Symptoms of Diabetic Foot?

The most common symptoms of diabetic foot include:.

Pain or numbness in the feet and toes
Dry or cracked skin on the feet
Cuts or wounds that won’t heal
Fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot
Ingrown toenails
Corn and calluses
Blisters or ulcers on the feet

How is Diabetic Foot Diagnosed?

If you have diabetes and are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should see your doctor or foot specialist (podiatrist) for a thorough foot examination.

Your doctor will be able to check your skin, nails, and nerves to determine if you are at risk for developing diabetic foot. They may also conduct some tests to measure your blood flow and nerve function, such as:.

Doppler ultrasound to measure blood flow
Nerve conduction studies to measure nerve function
Monofilament test to measure sensitivity in your feet

How is Diabetic Foot Treated?

The treatment of diabetic foot depends on the severity of the symptoms. The first step in managing diabetic foot is to keep your blood sugar levels under control. This will help reduce your risk of nerve damage, poor circulation, and infections.

Your doctor may also advise you to:.

Wear comfortable and supportive shoes to protect your feet
Practice good foot hygiene, such as washing and drying your feet daily
Apply moisturizer to prevent dry skin
Cut your toenails straight across
Avoid walking barefoot

If you have a foot ulcer or infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or dressings to promote healing. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove infected tissue or amputate the affected area.

How Can Diabetic Foot be Prevented?

The best way to prevent diabetic foot is to keep your blood sugar levels under control and take good care of your feet.

This includes practicing good foot hygiene, wearing comfortable shoes, and checking your feet regularly for any signs of injury or infection. You should also see your doctor or podiatrist regularly for foot exams and report any changes in sensation or skin conditions to your healthcare provider.

The Bottom Line

Diabetic foot is a common complication of diabetes that can lead to severe pain, infections, and even amputation. The best way to prevent diabetic foot is to keep your blood sugar levels under control and take good care of your feet.

If you are experiencing any symptoms of diabetic foot, such as pain, numbness, or infections, you should see your doctor or podiatrist right away.