Diabetes Care

It is important to understand diabetic risks to your feet

Elevated blood sugars may occur if your diabetes is not well controlled and eventually damage tissues and organs through out your body
Damage may occur in your feet to nerves, circulation, tendons and ligaments
Your ability to fight infection and heal may also become impaired
These diabetic changes make your feet more vulnerable to injury and disease
Nerve damage in the feet may cause neuropathy, an inability to feel pain, pressure and even burning temperatures
This is commonly known as 'loss of protective sensation'
Your feet may feel numb or tingle if your have "loss of protective sensation"
If you have 'loss of protective sensation' your feet may become damaged from injuries you are unable to feel
Callus or corns form over high pressure areas on your feet especially where they may be rubbing on your shoes
These areas are at risk of ulceration
Ulcers are lesions resulting from the break down of intact healthy skin
Blistered areas on the soles of your feet that continue to be walked upon may also become ulcers
Diabetic ulcers will require your commitment and dedicated podiatry intervention to heal
For many patients this may take a very long time
Diabetic ulcers also put you at further risk of infection and serious consequences that can lead to a lower limb amputation

correct and careful toe nail cutting
debridement of corns and callous to reduce the risks of ulceration
checking for 'loss of protective sensation' or how well you are sensing pain or injury to your feet
checking the pulses in your feet to ensure the blood supply to your feet is adequate.
checking that your footwear is appropriate and making in-shoe adjustments if necessary
general foot and diabetic advice

Valuable information from Diabetes New Zealand