Diabetes often affects the feet, sometimes devastatingly so. But we can reduce the risk of developing problems of the diabetic foot. If you have suffered serious complications in one leg, we can reduce occurrence in the other. Read on to see how.
Image by Jazmin Qaynor from Unsplash
How Does Diabetes Affect the Feet?
Diabetes is essentially a problem of long-standing high blood sugar levels. The excess sugar in the blood causes damage to the lining of blood vessels and the coverings of nerves. Diabetes also weakens our white blood cells, leading to a “lazy leukocyte syndrome”. Lastly, high blood sugar supports growth of bacteria.
- Effects on white blood cells and bacteria: Increase probability and severity of foot infections. Reduce chances of wound healing.
- Nerve damage:
- May affect your sensitivity to pain, pressure, posture, and temperature.
- Could cause you to step on a nail, sustain an injury, and not realize that you had done so.
- Could also cause you to feel pain in your feet when there is no physical damage.
- May destroy your sense of proprioception, leading to abnormal foot positions and potential joint deformities (Charcot’s foot).
- Reduced blood flow: Less oxygen, nutrients, and cells can get to the foot, leading to poor wound healing and infections.
Conclusion
By following the tips in this blog post and working closely with your healthcare provider, you can take proactive steps to protect your feet and prevent serious complications associated with diabetes.
Read this for simple lifestyle tips to prevent diabetes!
