Diabetes affects more than 1 in 10 Quebecers, according to the National Institute of Public Health of Quebec. This chronic condition causes serious complications including blindness, kidney disease, and accounts for half of all non-traumatic amputations. Early signs often appear on the feet.
Here are the main effects of diabetes on the feet.
Decreased blood flow
Diabetes significantly decreases blood flow by hardening arteries and thickening capillary walls. This poor circulation in the feet leads to symptoms such as:
- Significant cooling of the lower extremities;
- Poorly healing wounds;
- Congestion of blood vessels;
- Intermittent calf pain.
Loss of sensitivity (peripheral neuropathy)
Peripheral neuropathy, caused by nerve damage due to diabetes, results in loss of sensitivity in extremities. This dangerous condition prevents recognition of foot injuries, increasing risks.
Symptoms include:
- Tingling or burning sensations;
- Complete loss of temperature sensitivity;
- Numbness in feet and toes;
- Overall loss of foot sensitivity.
Combined with poor circulation, peripheral neuropathy can worsen injuries. It is crucial for people with diabetes to regularly check the soles of their feet for unnoticed wounds.
Reduced natural hydration
Plantar dryness is frequent in diabetic feet, often linked to neuropathy. Damaged nerves reduce natural sweat and sebum production, drying out the skin.
This dryness raises risks of:
- Corns and callus accumulation;
- Cracks in the foot;
- Heel fissures.
Consulting a podiatrist for foot care is strongly advised to treat these lesions.
Foot deformities
Peripheral neuropathy also causes foot deformities by contributing to musculoskeletal atrophy due to sensory loss.
Common related deformities include:
These deformities alter pressure distribution, creating pressure points. Custom-made foot orthoses by podiatrists help prevent further issues like skin lesions and biomechanical problems.
Avoid foot complications due to diabetes
The effects of diabetes on the feet can be minimized with prevention.
Preventive habits include:
- Wearing properly fitting shoes;
- Avoiding walking barefoot;
- Careful toenail hygiene.
Maintaining foot cleanliness is vital for diabetics. Daily inspection of the soles for:
- Open or weeping wounds;
- Nodules (phlycten);
- Bruises;
- Swelling;
- Color changes.
PiedReseau helps you effectively relieve the effects of diabetes on your feet
Without timely care, diabetic foot conditions may necessitate amputation. However, PiedReseau clinics provide effective treatment to manage plantar lesions.
Give your feet a break, consult a PiedReseau podiatrist today.