How Diabetes Affects Feet

Did you know that as a diabetic, you have a much greater risk of developing troublesome foot complications? At least half of all diabetic have debilitating foot pain and another 10% get problematic foot ulcers.   

Fortunately, there are things you can do to prevent diabetic foot issues and stop complications before they start. Board-certified podiatrist Jennifer Tauber, DPM, and the experienced care team at New Canaan Podiatry are committed to providing patients in New Canaan, Connecticut, with the best in diabetic foot care, including, preventive measures!

Read on to learn how diabetes impacts your feet and what you can do to keep your extremities healthy! 

How does diabetes cause foot problems?

Since people with diabetes have more glucose circulating through their bodies, they have a higher risk of developing foot problems. That’s because the underlying cause of diabetic foot problems is uncontrolled blood sugar. 

Sustained high blood sugar levels cause damage to your nerves and circulatory system, especially the nerve ending in your feet. This leads to conditions such as diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease. When you have these conditions, you’re at risk for even more foot problems.

Diabetic neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage that causes a loss of feeling and sensation in your feet. Since you won’t be able to feel when your foot is cut, irritated, or develops blisters, you have a higher risk of these wounds becoming infected. As a result, gangrene can develop, putting you at risk for amputation. 

Peripheral vascular disease

Uncontrolled diabetes can damage your circulatory system and blood vessels, leading to a condition called peripheral vascular disease. With peripheral vascular disease, the blocked blood vessels in your legs stop your feet from getting enough blood. As a result, any wounds or injuries your feet experience heal very slowly and are more likely to become infected.     

What can I do to avoid diabetic foot problems?

It’s true that diabetes puts you at a higher risk of developing foot problems. But the good news is you can take steps to reduce your risk and keep your feet healthy. 

One of the most important steps in keeping your feet healthy is controlling your blood sugar. Studies indicate diabetics with well-managed blood sugar levels are able to prevent nerve damage. In addition, if you already have neuropathy, controlling blood sugar levels can reduce foot pain and further foot damage. 

Other ways to avoid developing issues with your feet when you have diabetes include:

Dr. Taub and the team at New Canaan Podiatry are dedicated to changing lives through excellent diabetic foot care. By coming into the office at least once each year for a preventive diabetic foot exam, Dr. Taub can address any problems early, before complications start. 

If you experience any of the following symptoms before your next routine visit, call to schedule an exam:

If you have diabetes and want to learn more about foot care for diabetes, Dr. Taub and the team at New Canaan Podiatry are here to help. Contact our New Canaan, Connecticut, office by calling 203-263-9052 to book an appointment now!

You Might Also Enjoy...

Flat Feet Problems: How Custom Orthotics Can Help

Did you know about 25% of Americans have flat feet? If you’re among them and experience mobility issues, chronic pain, trouble standing, or any other issues flat feet can cause, learn how non-invasive custom orthotics can help.

What Causes Hammertoe?

Do you have pain and discomfort in your toes that’s not getting better? You could have hammertoe, which causes your toe joint to move upward, creating a hammer-like toe appearance. Here’s what causes it and how we can help.

5 Sports Injuries You Can Avoid with Proper Footwear

The footwear you choose for your sport can make the difference between optimizing your performance and a serious sports injury. Take a moment to learn more about the injuries you can avoid by choosing the right shoes.

What Causes Yellow, Crumbly Nails?

If your toenails are thick, yellow, or crumbly, chances are you have two questions: Why do my nails look like this, and is there anything that can fix them? Keep reading to learn the answers and how we can help.

How to Preserve Your Foot and Avoid Amputation

If you’re struggling with a condition that puts you at risk for a foot amputation, chances are you’d like to prevent the need for this procedure. Keep reading to learn how you can preserve your foot and stay on your feet longer.