What many people consider to be ordinary foot problems, such as calluses, can turn into major problems for diabetics, according to the American Diabetes Association. High levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood for a long period of time can cause serious foot complications. To properly care for these conditions, you must first be aware of them and the symptoms they are accompanied by.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are a common problem among those with diabetes, and can be caused by toenails that are thickened and neglected. Shoes that do not fit properly may also play a role in this foot disorder, thus requiring those with diabetes to purchase shoes made specifically for diabetics. Trimming is usually performed by a podiatrist (foot doctor) who will ensure the nail is cut properly and no infection is present. If the nail is neglected, or proper care is not sought, the toenail can begin to grow in and under the skin. This results in pain, swelling and infection of the toe.
Calluses
A callus, as stated by the Cleveland Clinic, is a hardening or thickening of the skin. These are typically located on the ball, heel or toes of the foot, and in many cases, they are the result of unevenly distributed weight. Calluses can be treated easily; simply soak your feet in the shower to soften these areas and then use a pumice stone to remove the dead tissue.
Calluses occur more frequently in diabetics and can lead to a more severe foot problem such as an ulcer. While the aforementioned treatment is acceptable for diabetics, a lotion should be applied after using the pumice stone to keep the affected area moist. Repeating this treatment daily helps prevent the buildup of calluses, which prevents the need for therapeutic shoes and inserts.
Poor Circulation
Diabetes causes the blood vessels of the feet and legs to constrict and harden over a period of time. This eventually results in poor circulation, decreasing your body's ability to fight infection when one develops. The American Diabetes Association recommends making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking. You should also speak to your doctor about your blood pressure and cholesterol levels; both can have an adverse affect on your circulation. In addition, beginning a mild exercise routine that you can adhere to daily may help stimulate and improve blood flow.
Foot Ulcers
Calluses are one of the most common reasons for foot ulcers; however foot ulcers also form due to shoes that do not fit properly and minor cuts or scrapes that do not heal. Ulcers are typically located on either the ball or big toe of your foot, and appear as an open sore or break in the skin. At first sign of these, you should visit your doctor. The American Diabetes Association states that leaving it undiagnosed or untreated can result in an infection. Infections in diabetics are extremely serious and take considerably longer to heal than infections in non-diabetics. This is due to decreased blood circulation to infection site.
