Diabetic foot is a serious and potentially life-altering complication of diabetes. It often begins with a gradual loss of sensation in the feet, leading to unnoticed injuries, hard-to-heal ulcers, and in extreme cases, tissue necrosis.
Careful hygiene and daily inspection of your feet are essential to catching problems early and preventing more serious outcomes.
What Is Diabetic Foot?
Diabetic foot is a syndrome caused by long-term complications of diabetes, resulting in structural and functional damage to the foot and ankle. This damage is often linked to two key issues: neuropathy (nerve damage) and peripheral arterial disease (reduced blood circulation).
There are two primary forms:
Neuropathic diabetic foot: Caused by chronic high blood sugar damaging the nerves, leading to a loss of feeling, especially to temperature, touch, and pain. It also changes the way pressure is distributed on the foot, increasing the risk of ulcers.
Neuro-ischemic diabetic foot: Here, both nerve and blood vessel damage are present. Poor circulation deprives the foot of oxygen and nutrients, making the tissue vulnerable to necrosis and infection.
Causes and Underlying Mechanisms
The root causes are both direct results of diabetes: neuropathy and arterial insufficiency. Type 1 diabetes, which often begins early in life, results from an autoimmune attack on insulin-producing cells. Even with insulin therapy and proper diet, long-term high blood sugar levels damage blood vessels, particularly in the legs and feet.
As circulation weakens and nerves deteriorate, feet become dry, thin-skinned, and prone to injury. Even small problems—tight shoes, mild burns, or minor cuts—can spiral into severe infections or ulcers, especially in areas with pressure like the ball of the foot or between the toes.
Early Warning Signs
Diabetic foot can show up in subtle ways, so it’s important to recognize the early signs:
- Increased warmth or redness in the foot
- Numbness or tingling
- Loss of ability to feel temperature or pain
- Small injuries or ulcers that don’t heal
Even if you don’t feel pain, damage may still be occurring. That’s why daily foot checks are so important.
When to Seek Help
Only a medical professional can accurately diagnose diabetic foot and assess your risk of complications. You may be referred to a diabetologist, podiatrist, or a diabetic foot clinic for evaluation. Getting help early can make a big difference.
Treatment and Prevention
The best treatment is prevention. Keeping the skin intact and healthy is critical, especially if you have nerve damage. Use a mirror to check the soles of your feet or ask someone to help. If wounds do appear, address them immediately to prevent infection.
In severe cases, diabetic foot can progress to gangrene, where amputation of part or all of the foot—or even the leg—may be necessary. That’s why early action and prevention are so vital.
Key Prevention Tips
- Wash and dry your feet thoroughly every day
- Wear soft, breathable shoes that fit well
- Choose cotton or other natural-fiber socks
- Avoid prolonged dampness—sweat fosters infections
- Get pedicures professionally—never cut nails carelessly
- Treat small injuries promptly
- Manage your diabetes carefully with regular checkups
Final Thoughts
Diabetic foot is a serious condition, but it is often preventable with proper care. Managing your blood sugar, staying vigilant about your foot health, and following your doctor’s advice can protect you from complications. Taking care of yourself isn’t just about preserving your health—it’s about being there for the people who love and depend on you.