There
are several foot problems that occur frequently in patients with diabetes.
Ulcers
- Ulcers are basically just severe sores. Loss of sensation in the foot prevents diabetics
from realizing when pressure or friction caused by a shoe is developing into a sore. In addition, because diabetics lose the ability to
regulate moisture in their skin, the skin more readily develops cracks, leading to ulcers.
Toe
deformities
-
Hammertoe, a severe deformity of the toe, may result from diabetes. It is partly the
result of nerve damage that affects muscle balance. The deformity can also lead to ulcers
because the toes are more likely to rub on shoes.
Charcot
process
-
The Charcot process is a condition of the foot whereby the foot becomes swollen, often
red, and warm to the touch. Deep in the foot, the joints eventually collapse and the bones
break apart, leaving deformed arches or ankles.
Gangrene
Diabetics have a greater risk of gangrene than non-diabetics. Gangrene is caused by
advanced infection or by narrowed blood vessels that prevent the flow of blood to the foot
and toes. Smoking worsens this problem.
II. Cause:
Diabetics
suffer from damage to nerves and sometimes partial loss of circulation. The resulting loss of sensation, dry, thickened
skin, and abnormal shape of the foot all put diabetics at higher risk for the above foot
conditions.
III. Treatment and Prevention: Steps
can be taken for diabetics to lower their risk of developing diabetes related foot
conditions:
Control the blood sugar -
This can be done through diet, insulin, or other medication. High blood sugar is a major
cause of nerve damage, which leads to the loss of sensation and to ulcers, deformities,
and lack of moisture control in the skin, resulting in many foot complications.
Examine your feet daily - This way you can find areas of irritation,
blisters, or cuts and get them treated before they become severe ulcers or get infected.
Keep skin moist - Use Vaseline or an effective lotion twice a
day on the feet to keep the skin moist and prevent cracking.
Wear wide, roomy shoes - Avoid constrictive shoes and shoes with heels.
Wider shoes (like running shoes) will help avoid rubbing and blistering, which could lead
to ulcers.
Get
early professional attention - If you notice any of the above warning signs,
get professional attention immediately. The earlier treatment begins, the more likely it
is that surgeries and amputations can be avoided.
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