Diabetes can cause harm to the feet and lead to serious complications, like amputations. Diabetes often causes neuropathy which is a loss of sensation in the feet and therefore an inability to feel pain or sense any potentially brewing problems. It is also common for those with diabetes to have slow healing when foot problems do occur. Diabetics can work to prevent these things by monitoring their blood sugar levels, checking their feet daily for cuts and sores, washing, drying, and moisturizing their feet each day, and wearing comfortable shoes that fit well and protect the feet. Toenails should also be cut straight across regularly to avoid ingrown toenails. If you have diabetes, it is a good idea to have a chiropodist on your medical team and have him or her regularly examine your feet and help you ensure your feet remain as healthy as possible.

Diabetes can cause serious problems in the lower limbs if proper preventive measures are not taken and diabetic wound care is not performed. If you would like to learn more about caring for diabetic feet, please consult with Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Diabetes can lead to a host of foot and ankle complications, including: 

• Poor circulation

• Peripheral neuropathy

• Diabetic foot wounds and ulcers

• Infection 

• Corns and calluses

• Dry, cracked skin

• Nail disorders 

• Hammertoes 

• Bunions

• Charcot foot

If you have diabetes, you must be vigilant of any changes in your foot health. This is best done through daily foot inspections. Using a mirror to help you if necessary, look for any: 

• Cuts, scrapes, sores, or wounds

• Bruising or discoloration 

• Swelling

• Rash

• Foul odor

• Nail changes 

• Hair loss 

• Warmth and inflammation

• Deformities 

• Lower limb pain

• Strange sensations (numbness, tingling, burning, pins, and needles)

If you detect anything unusual, seek the care of a chiropodist as soon as possible. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.