PhysioQinetics

Diabetic foot

Doctor examining a patient's diabetic foot
Credit: 
Getty Images under licence to PhysioQinetics Ltd.

 

Sufferers of diabetes can get many problems in the feet and legs. The increased blood sugar level causes damage to the small blood vessels causing circulation problems, and the same microcirculation impaitment also affect to the nervous system, causing what is called peripheral neuropathy (loss of sensation). These can contribute to bone and joint problems, skin and nail problems, and diabetics are particularly susceptible to ulcers and infection.

People suffering from diabetes should undergo regular foot care by a Podiatrist. This is very important in the prevention of any foot illnesses or conditions because many diabetics' nerve and blood supply to the feet can be impaired, leaving an infection or sore to heal much slower, or not at all. In some extreme cases, toes, feet and even legs have had to be amputated – where foot treatment could have prevented such a severe measure.

Diabetics should particularly look out for any corns and calluses which is thickening of the skin created by tight footwear rubbing and pressing on the skin of the feet. When the pain is not felt due to poor blood circulation, corns and calluses can be a cause of infection resulting in diabetic foot ulcers. This is a failure of the wound healing of the tissue.

Footwear needs to be well-fitted to prevent any foot problems, also including nail problems. Our podiatrist has the specialist expertise to advice on the most appropriate footwear.

 

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