Uncontrolled diabetes causes nerve damage, poor blood circulation of feet and frequent foot infections. When nerves are damaged you fail to notice tiny injuries until they grow bigger. When blood flow in feet is poor, injuries do not heal fast and well. They get infected easily especially when blood glucose is uncontrolled. All above lead to death of tissue called gangrene necessitating amputation (loss of fingers, feet, leg). If you take precautions these problems can be prevented.
You should take 3 steps to protect your feet.
- Proper control of your diabetes. You can do this by getting treatment, adoption of healthy lifestyle and regular checking. You should keep HbA1c below 7%.
- Checking your feet by yourself every day. This includes inspection of your feet, keeping feet clean and dry, moisturizing areas of dry skin, nail cutting correctly and use of appropriate foot ware.
- Having a foot screening at least once a yearat an expertise foot care center.
What is foot screening?
Foot screening involves checking the foot for feeling (sensation), blood flow (pulse) and any changes to the shape and appearance of the foot. During this, an expert foot care nurse using the latest technology will pick up any changes in your feet that may increase your risk of foot problems in the future.
When do you need screening?
You should have a foot screening at least once a year to protect your feet if you have diabetes. If you have foot problems you may need to get your feet checked more frequently.
Why should you wear special shoes to protect your feet in diabetes?
Diabetes leads to changes in the shape of your feet, leading to pressure points called callus that might develop into sores or ulcers. Diabetic shoes are designed to distribute pressure evenly across the foot, reducing the risk of such problems. They usually have thicker soles and extra depth to achieve this.
The foot problems for which medical help is needed to prevent worsening.
- burning, tingling, or painful feet
- loss of feeling to heat, cold, or touch
- changes of the color or shape of feet
- thick and yellow toenails
- red spots, blisters, sores, ulcers
- ingrown toenails
- corns and calluses
- hammertoes and bunions
Diabetes-related foot problems can worsen very quickly and are difficult to treat, so it’s important to seek prompt medical attention if you have any of above symptoms and signs.
What is Ischaemia?
Ischemia is reduced blood supply to part of a body. Eg toe, foot. This is a consequence of uncontrolled diabetes.
What is gangrene?
Infections, especially in an ischaemic foot that do not heal can cause skin and tissue to die and turn black. This is called gangrene. Treatment can involve surgery to amputate a toe, foot, or part of a leg. The aim of foot screening is to prevent gangrene.