If you have diabetes, it is important that you keep your blood sugar in the target range as much as possible. This can help prevent or delay complications of diabetes, although genetics also plays a role in its development. High blood sugar over a long period increases the risk of developing a range of complications, including foot problems. About 50% of people with diabetes develop peripheral neuropathy, and they have a 25% higher risk of developing a foot ulcer. Diabetics Also, the rate of amputation is 15 times higher than that of people without diabetes. healthnews“.
Foot complications associated with diabetes.
foot ulcers
People with diabetes often don’t realize they have a wound on their feet because they can’t feel them (due to neuropathy) and they also often have poor circulation which slows healing. More than 80% of lower limb amputations occur after a foot ulcer. However, it is easily preventable if caught early.
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN)
DPN It is the most common complication of diabetes and includes any disturbance of the peripheral nervous system, but occurs most often in the hands and feet. It begins in the furthest parts of the body from the center of your body (for example, the toes) and then progresses inward towards your torso. In blood as close to the target range as possible stops progression or improves symptoms of neuropathy.
skin problems
Autonomic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that affects the involuntary and non-sensory nervous system. When it is in the lower extremities, it can reduce sweating, cause dry skin, and cause cracks in the skin..
Motor neuropathy affecting the muscles of the foot can cause deformity of the foot, as well as pressure sensory neuropathy, which increases a person’s risk of developing ulcers in that area..
Fungal infections on the foot and between the toes (for example, athlete’s foot) and nail infections are also common in people with diabetes..
Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
Peripheral arterial disease is a buildup of cholesterol that leads to reduced blood flow to the legs and feet. Risk factors for PAD include diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, increased age (over 60 years), and hardening of the arteries.
How to prevent or delay foot complications
Diabetes management: taking medications or insulin, checking your blood sugar frequently, eating a healthy diet, getting regular physical activity, managing stress
Healthy lifestyle modifications: stop smoking, get regular sleep, and manage stress
Following these preventative foot care recommendations can reduce serious foot problems and amputations by up to 80%, incl:
Perform a foot examination: wash and dry your feet (especially between your toes) daily, check the bottoms of your feet and your legs every day to make sure you don’t have sores, cuts, or any objects on your feet or problems with your nails.
Moisturizing your feet daily: cut your toenails carefully (straight) or go to a podiatrist to do this, do not walk barefoot, wear appropriate clean and dry socks and shoes.