Why Does Diabetes Affect the Feet?
Over time, elevated blood sugar can damage nerves (diabetic neuropathy) and reduce circulation to the lower legs and feet. This combination means cuts, blisters, or pressure points may not be felt right away and may heal more slowly than they would otherwise, raising the risk of ulcers and infection.
Warning Signs to Watch For
- Cuts, blisters, or sores that are slow to heal
- Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the feet
- Changes in skin color or temperature
- Swelling, redness, or drainage from any wound
- Thickened or discolored toenails
Daily Foot Care Habits
- Check your feet every day, including between the toes, using a mirror if needed
- Wash feet daily with lukewarm water and dry them thoroughly, especially between toes
- Moisturize the top and bottom of the feet, but not between the toes
- Wear well-fitting shoes and clean, dry socks — never walk barefoot
- Trim toenails straight across to avoid ingrown nails
When Should I See a Specialist?
Any wound that hasn't started healing within a few days, signs of infection, or new numbness should be evaluated promptly. People with diabetes also benefit from a comprehensive foot exam at least once a year, even without symptoms, since nerve damage can progress silently.
Everything in One Place
At Hospital CMQ, diabetic foot care brings together endocrinology, wound care, and vascular evaluation as needed, so a small problem can be caught and treated before it becomes a serious complication — all coordinated by one team.
Schedule a diabetic foot exam, or get an urgent wound evaluated the same day.
References
- American Diabetes Association — Foot complications
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — Diabetes and your feet
- Mayo Clinic — Diabetic neuropathy
