November marks a significant occasion for both diabetes awareness and foot health. As the world unites to shed light on the impact of diabetes on millions of lives, it is crucial to highlight the often-neglected aspect of foot health in diabetes management. In this blog post, we'll explore the link between diabetes and foot health, the risks faced by individuals with diabetes, and the essential steps to safeguard foot health throughout the journey of living with this chronic condition.

Diabetes and Foot Health: Understanding the Connection

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood sugar levels, which can lead to complications that affect various organs, including the feet. The relationship between diabetes and foot health is vital to understand, as individuals living with diabetes are at higher risk of developing foot problems due to the potential impact on nerves (neuropathy) and blood vessels (vascular changes).

Diabetic Neuropathy: High blood sugar levels over time can cause damage to nerves, leading to peripheral neuropathy. This condition often affects the feet, causing tingling, numbness, and loss of sensation. As a result, individuals may not notice small injuries or blisters, leading to delayed treatment and an increased risk of infections.

Peripheral Arterial Disease: Diabetes can also cause changes in the blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the feet. Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) can result in poor wound healing and increase the likelihood of foot ulcers and infections.

Common Foot Complications in Diabetes

Several foot complications can arise from uncontrolled diabetes, emphasizing the need for regular foot care and awareness:

1. Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Untreated blisters, cuts, or wounds can develop into ulcers, particularly when neuropathy hampers pain perception. These ulcers are slow to heal and may become infected if not managed promptly.
2. Infections: Diabetes weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections. A minor foot injury can escalate into a severe infection if left untreated.
3. Charcot Foot: Charcot foot is a severe complication wherein the bones in the foot weaken and collapse, leading to deformities and difficulties with walking.
4. Calluses and Corns: Pressure and friction on the feet can cause calluses and corns, which, if left unaddressed, may contribute to ulcer formation.
5. Ingrown Toenails: High blood sugar levels can impair nail growth, increasing the risk of ingrown toenails, which can be painful and susceptible to infection.

Promoting Foot Health in Diabetes Awareness Month

1. Daily Foot Inspections: Individuals with diabetes should inspect their feet daily for any redness, swelling, blisters, or sores. Promptly reporting any abnormalities to a healthcare professional is crucial to prevent complications.
2. Maintain Healthy Blood Sugar Levels: Keeping blood sugar levels within the target range can significantly reduce the risk of diabetic neuropathy and vascular complications.
3. Choose the Right Footwear: Wearing properly fitted, comfortable shoes with adequate support can minimize pressure points and reduce the risk of foot injuries.
4. Regular Podiatrist Visits: Regular visits to a podiatrist are essential for individuals with diabetes. Podiatrists can identify potential issues early on and provide personalized foot care recommendations.
5. Keep Feet Clean and Moisturized: Regularly washing and drying feet thoroughly can prevent infections. Applying moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated helps prevent cracking and dryness.
6. Avoid Self-Treatment: It is essential to avoid self-treatment of foot issues. Over-the-counter remedies and foot care tools can cause harm, especially for individuals with diabetes.

November, being Diabetes Awareness Month, presents an excellent opportunity to emphasize the importance of foot health in diabetes management. The connection between diabetes and foot complications underscores the need for proactive foot care and awareness among individuals living with this condition. By taking small but consistent steps to prioritize foot health, individuals with diabetes can significantly reduce the risk of complications, improve their overall well-being, and confidently take each step towards a healthier life. If you or someone you know has diabetes and have foot problems, please consider making an appointment with Dr. Margaret Withrow or Dr. Dylan Kaumaya at Roadrunner Foot and Ankle in Peoria Arizona.  Having a podiatrist on your team to help manage your diabetes is important for overall health.