Why is Foot Care Important for Diabetics?

Diabetes can cause several changes in the body that make the feet more vulnerable:

• Nerve Damage (Neuropathy): High blood sugar levels over time can damage the nerves in the feet, making it harder to feel cuts, blisters or other injuries. This loss of sensation means that small problems may go unnoticed until they become serious.
• Poor Circulation: Diabetes can also affect blood flow to the feet, which makes it harder for the body to fight infections and heal wounds. Poor circulation can cause the feet to feel cold or have a bluish tint and make healing from even minor cuts more challenging.
• Increased Risk of Infection: With poor circulation and nerve damage, the feet become more susceptible to infections, which can spread quickly if not addressed promptly.
• Foot Deformities: People with diabetes may also develop foot deformities like bunions, hammertoes or Charcot foot (a condition that leads to the collapse of the arch), which can create areas of stress or friction that cause injuries.