How does diabetes affect the feet specifically?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Ranjith Darla

General Practitioner

MBBS
3+ Yrs

Consult Now

Diabetes affects nerves which reduce one's sensitivity to pain from wound leading to repetitive traumas, wounds can get infected which may not heal fastly due to reduced blood supply. Sometimes, a bad infection never heals. The infection might lead to gangrene and amputation.

Dr. Ranjith Suggests...

Consult a Podiatrist

Find a Podiatrist

Answered 04/07/2025

Ask Apollo

AI powered Health Chatbot

Continue Chat

Nerve Damage (Peripheral Neuropathy) a. High blood sugar can damage nerves, causing numbness, tingling, or pain in the feet. b. Loss of sensation increases the risk of unnoticed injuries.
Poor Blood Circulation (Peripheral Artery Disease) a. Diabetes can narrow blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the feet. b. This impairs healing and raises infection risk.
Foot Ulcers and Infections a. Minor cuts can develop into ulcers due to poor healing. b. Increased risk of infections and complications.
Structural Changes and Deformities a. Nerve and muscle damage may alter foot shape. b. Conditions like Charcot foot can occur.
Preventive Care and Monitoring a. Regular foot inspections, proper hygiene, and suitable footwear are crucial. b. Seek advice from specialists like podiatrists or endocrinologists.
Treatment Options a. Manage blood sugar, provide wound care, and address circulation issues. b. Use medications and therapies common in diabetic foot care.

Recommended next steps

Consult a Podiatrist or Consult a Endocrinologist

Find a Podiatrist Find a Endocrinologist

Answered 11 days ago

More Podiatry Health Queries

View all

Question

My toenail has been growing into the flesh and turned black it got worse during lockdown. A doctor earlier suggested surgery to remove it, but I couldn't go. What can I do now to treat this ingrown toenail?

Question

How can I handle an ingrown toenail that's deep in the basecutical area? I've always struggled with ingrown toenails, and I'm getting ready for camp and want to avoid dealing with it there. I attempted cutting the side out but just couldn't do it completely, and now it's worse. I've also soaked it in Epsom salts three times. Any advice on what else I can do?

Question

I accidentally stepped on a stapler pin recently during a function and it poked my foot. I pulled it out quickly and only had a tiny droplet of blood and a slight pinch. It's been a few days and Im still feeling pain when I walk and its hard to put full pressure on that foot. Theres no sign of an injury or swelling, but the pain is definitely there when I press down. Should I be worried about getting a tetanus shot, or do you think it's a good idea to see a specialist about this?

Health Articles for you

View all

Foot Pain

Understanding Claw Toes and Their Causes

Learn about claw toes, a common toe deformity that causes curling and discomfort. Discover its causes, symptoms, treatments, and tips to relieve pain and improve foot health.

Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.