Diabetes can cause damage to the nerves and blood vessels in the feet. This can lead to changes in sensation and blood flow.

When your nerves are not functioning as well as they should, you may be less likely to feel pressure points, sores or warmth. Changes in blood flow often mean that the skin heals less effectively. This increases the risk of sores, infections and other foot problems.

Not everyone with diabetes experiences the same symptoms. That is precisely why it is important to recognise changes in the feet in good time.

Foot problems associated with diabetes are often caused by changes to the nerves and blood vessels, as well as strain on the feet.

Possible causes include:

reduced blood flow;
nerve damage;
skin changes;
pressure sores caused by shoes or the position of the foot.

Foot problems associated with diabetes often develop gradually. As a result, you may not always notice immediately that something is changing.

Ultimately, you may notice that:

you have less feeling in your feet;
if you experience tingling or a burning sensation;
your feet feel different;
you are less likely to notice minor cuts;
minor wounds heal more slowly;
the skin becomes dry or sensitive;
pressure points or calluses can develop more quickly.

A healthy lifestyle has a positive impact on your feet and your general health. Sufficient exercise, a healthy diet and good diabetes management help to keep the body and skin as healthy as possible.

Long-term symptoms or uncertainty about minor wounds can cause stress or anxiety. Our lifestyle coaches can support them in developing healthy habits relating to diet, exercise and lifestyle. Our psychologists can provide support when symptoms are causing you concern or affecting your daily life.

There is a lot you can do yourself to keep your feet healthy and help prevent problems. Regular checks and good care are important in this regard.

To look after your feet properly, you can:

check your feet every day;
Wash and dry your feet thoroughly, including between the toes;
take good care of your skin with a suitable cream;
wear well-fitting shoes;
Take pressure sores or minor wounds seriously;
do not walk barefoot;
Seek help in good time when changes occur.

The pedicure Check your feet and look out for changes to the skin, nails and pressure sores. With regular diabetes foot checks, symptoms can often be identified and treated at an early stage.

Treatment may consist of:

nail and skin care;
the removal of excess calluses;
the treatment of pressure sores;
checking for minor wounds or changes in the skin;
advice on daily foot care;
advice on footwear and strain on the feet;
referral to a podiatrist where necessary.

If there is an increased risk of foot problems, the podiatrist to carry out further research and contribute ideas on the protection and treatment of your feet.

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Foot problems associated with diabetes

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