Diabetic Feet. Diabetic Neuropathy Signs, Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Diabetic neuropathy – Symptoms and causes

Diabetic neuropathy is a nerve damage that occurs with prolonged diabetes and usually affects the legs and feet. In diabetic foot neuropathy there is a loss of sensation at the bottom of the foot and as a result for example an unnoticed cut or sore can lead to an infection and worse gangrene or an amputation may result.

Diabetic neuropathy cannot be reversed, however doctors strongly advise the best approach is to manage the blood sugar levels via medicine and lifestyle changes.

If you have diabetes it is very important to take care of your feet.

1. Don’t walk around barefoot
2. Wear light coloured socks so a cut can be spotted if it is bleeding
3. Wash your feet every day with mild soap and warm water and dry well between the toes.
4. Check for blisters and calluses and smooth them out regularly
5. Apply lotion to dry skin
6. Keep your toenails trimmed with a straight cut
7. Wear properly fitted shoes with good support
8. Check the inside of your shoes before you don them for small objects like lego pieces!
9. Stimulate blood flow in your feet by walking and not remaining seated for too long. Elevate your feet
10. Stop smoking and follow good nutrition
11. Get a thorough foot exam regularly

Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Causes and Treatments

A common complication in the foot of diabetics is a diabetic ulcer. This is where the skin has a sore that is broken and it can become infected really quickly. These are serious and should be treated seriously. Sometimes the smallest of cuts or scrapes can turn into an ulcer. Talk to your doctor about your diabetic ulcer right away.

Signs of Diabetic Foot Problems:

• Swelling
• Pain
• Open sores
• Ingrown toenails
• Corns and Calluses
• Dry cracking skin
• Unusual pervasive foot odour

Complications of Diabetic Foot Problems

• Infections in the skin and bone causing an abscess
• Gangrene due to blood supply being cut off
• Nerve damage causing foot deformities
• Charcot foot due to weak bones and nerve damage
• Amputation if the infection or gangrene progresses too far.

If you are having difficulty walking, running, or are experiencing any foot-related issues, we’ll have your feet examined, diagnosed properly, and treated rapidly by our STELLAR team at Mobility on Mainway! Call us at 289-245-6624 to book an appointment.