Diabetes is more than a condition that affects your blood glucose levels; it is a condition that can have lasting effects on the rest of your body as well. One major area of concern for diabetics is the feet. From ordinary problems, such as calluses, to more serious problems like nerve damage, the various conditions can lead to infection and amputation if not properly treated and cared for.
Calluses
A callus, according to the Cleveland Clinic, is a hardening or thickening of the skin on the ball, heel or toes of the foot. In many cases they are due to uneven distribution of weight and can be treated easily by soaking your feet in the shower to soften these areas, followed by the use of a pumice stone to remove the dead tissue.
For diabetics, though, calluses occur more frequently and can lead to a more serious foot problem such as an ulcer. The above-mentioned treatment is acceptable for diabetics; however, after use of the pumice stone, you should apply lotion to keep the area moist. Performing this routine every day will prevent the buildup of calluses, thus preventing the need for therapeutic shoes and inserts.
Foot Ulcers
While a callus is one of the most common reasons for foot ulcers, these also form due to due to improperly fitting shoes and are generally located on the the ball or big toe of your foot. The American Diabetes Association suggests visiting your doctor at the first sign of this condition; leaving it undiagnosed or treated can result in the development of an infection. For diabetics, infections are very serious and take longer to heal than infections in non-diabetics due to decreased blood circulation to the site of the infection.
Ingrown Toenails
This foot problem can be due to improperly fitting shoes, or toenails that have become thick and are neglected. Thickened toenails are a common problem among those with diabetes. To have them trimmed usually requires the care of a health professional to ensure the nail is cut properly and no infection is present. When proper care is ignored or not sought, the toenail can begin to grow in and under the skin, resulting in pain, swelling and infection.
Poor Circulation
Diabetes is a disease that, over time, causes the blood vessels of your feet and legs to harden and become narrow; this results in poor circulation and decreases your body's ability to fight infection when one occurs. The American Diabetes Association recommends trying lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and speaking to your doctor about your blood pressure and cholesterol levels; these can all have an impact on your circulation. It is also recommended that you begin a mild or moderate exercise routine each day. This helps stimulate and improve your blood flow.
Diabetic Neuropathy
Neuropathy is nerve damage caused by diabetes. This poses a danger for diabetics because they can hurt themselves (e.g. burn their feet, twist or break their ankle or foot), and not feel the pain. In other instances, you may have a rusty nail go through the bottom of your shoe and into your foot, not realizing it for hours after. This will cause an infection from which you may not be able to heal right away due to poor circulation. In the end, an amputation may be necessary to preserve your life.
