Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a condition in which the blood glucose levels are abnormally high because the body is either not producing enough insulin or unable to use the insulin produced.
Diabetes mellitus is often associated with foot problems such as diabetic foot, a condition that can develop over time when the blood vessels and nerves are damaged by high blood sugar.
Diabetic neuropathy
Diabetes can reduce blood supply to the feet and damage the nerves that carry sensation. This condition is known as diabetic neuropathy. People with neuropathy are at a greater risk of developing potentially serious foot-related issues, such as ulcers, as they may lose the ability to perceive sensations.
When you lose sensation in your feet, you may not be able to feel a blister on your foot, which can lead to cuts and sores that can become infected.
On the other hand, inadequate blood supply to the legs and feet can make it difficult for a wound or an infection to heal. Sometimes, it can be a chronic infection that does not heal.
Diabetic foot diagnosis
Your doctor would first question your general health and symptoms before conducting a thorough physical examination.
Diagnosis is made based on your medical history and physical examination of your feet.
Your doctor may also conduct several tests, including:
- Monofilament test to test the foot's sensitivity to touch.
- Pinprick test to test if you can perceive pain.
- Ankle reflex to check your reflexes.
- Doppler ultrasound to check the blood flow in the feet.
Foot care for diabetes patients
Diabetes patients are at increased risk of developing foot problems. Proper management of blood glucose levels can decrease the likelihood of circulation problems and nerve damage, which often result in foot complications.
Quit smoking as it can worsen heart and circulation problems which can reduce blood flow to the feet.
Apart from regulating blood sugar, it is also important to practise good foot care to prevent complications. Following are tips for foot care for diabetes patients:
- Check your feet daily and look for changes such as redness, swelling, cuts, and blisters between and underneath the toes.
- Do not pop blisters or break the skin on your feet.
- Use lukewarm water and mild soap to wash your feet daily. Thoroughly dry them, especially between the toes, by patting them gently with a clean towel.
- Avoid walking barefoot. Wear clean, dry cotton socks that fit well. Remember to change your socks daily.
- Wear shoes that fit well, are not too tight and have a wide tow box. You may require custom-made shoes if you have foot deformities or ulcers. Additionally, shoe inserts can cushion your step and reduce the pressure on your soles.
- Trim your toenails carefully and straight across. Avoid cutting them too short or down the sides. Avoid having your cuticles cut, either by yourself or by a manicurist. You should seek proper treatment if you have a callus or an ingrown toenail.
- Get regular foot examinations done by your doctor.
When to visit the doctor for diabetic foot
Visit your doctor immediately if you have diabetes mellitus and notice any of the following conditions:
- Numbness, tingling, pain in the feet.
- Diminished ability to feel heat, cold or pain.
- Cuts, blisters, sores, or bruises that do not heal.
- Pain, swelling or redness on your feet.
- Pus discharge or foul-smelling foot infection.
Make an appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals
Serious foot complications due to diabetes are preventable in the vast majority of cases. The best way to prevent foot complications is to take care of them routinely at home and visit your doctor's appointments regularly.
Get in touch with us to find out more about our Orthopaedic Services at your nearest Gleneagles Hospital.
Gleneagles Hospital works with orthopaedic specialists to assist patients through diagnosis and treatment. The caring and multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals are available for consultation and to provide the best care.
