Author: Dr. Akhil S R, Senior Specialist - Foot & Ankle (Orthopaedics)

Diabetes can affect various parts of the body, and the feet are particularly vulnerable to complications. Prolonged high blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels, reducing sensation and blood circulation in the feet. This can make even minor injuries difficult to detect and slow down the healing process, increasing the risk of infections and other serious complications.

Diabetic foot problems require timely medical attention and proper foot care. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications, protect foot health and reduce the risk of amputation.

Common Foot Problems Associated with Diabetes

1. Swelling of the Feet

Swelling in the feet and ankles can occur in people with diabetes due to poor circulation, nerve damage or other associated health conditions. Persistent swelling, particularly when accompanied by redness, warmth or pain, should not be ignored, as it may indicate an underlying complication.

2. Fungal Infections and Toenail Problems

Diabetes can increase susceptibility to fungal infections, including infections affecting the toenails and the skin between the toes. Thickened, discoloured or brittle toenails, along with redness, itching and swelling, require proper evaluation and treatment to prevent further complications.

3. Hammertoes and Foot Deformities

Diabetic nerve damage can weaken the muscles controlling the toes, resulting in foot deformities such as hammertoes. This condition causes one or more toes to bend abnormally. The resulting pressure and friction from footwear can lead to corns, calluses and ulcers.

4. Charcot Foot

Charcot foot is a serious complication associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Nerve damage reduces the ability to feel pain and injuries, allowing small fractures and joint damage to go unnoticed. Over time, the bones and joints of the foot may weaken, shift or collapse, resulting in significant deformity.

Common signs of Charcot foot include:

• Swelling of the foot or ankle.
• Redness and increased warmth in the affected foot.
• Changes in the shape or structure of the foot.
• Reduced sensation or numbness.
• Difficulty walking or changes in the way the foot bears weight.

Early diagnosis and treatment of Charcot foot are essential to prevent permanent deformity, ulcers and possible amputation.

Treatment and Management of Diabetic Foot Problems

The treatment of diabetic foot conditions depends on the underlying problem and its severity. Early medical intervention can significantly reduce the risk of complications.

Treatment options may include:

• Wound Care: Regular cleaning, dressing and specialised wound management to promote healing and prevent infection.
• Medication: Antibiotics for bacterial infections and antifungal medicines for fungal infections, when indicated.
• Offloading and Protective Footwear: Specialised footwear, braces or casts to reduce pressure on affected areas and support healing.
• Charcot Foot Management: Immobilisation and avoiding weight-bearing on the affected foot during the active phase, followed by appropriate protective footwear and long-term monitoring.
• Surgical Intervention: Surgery may be required in selected cases involving severe deformities, bone damage, deep infections or complications that cannot be managed through conservative treatment.

How to Prevent Diabetic Foot Complications

Prevention plays a vital role in maintaining healthy feet for people living with diabetes.

• Examine your feet every day for cuts, blisters, swelling and changes in skin colour.
• Maintain proper foot hygiene and keep the feet clean and dry.
• Wear comfortable, well-fitting footwear.
• Avoid walking barefoot, even indoors.
• Keep blood sugar levels under control.
• Trim toenails carefully and seek professional help for nail-related problems.
• Schedule regular diabetic foot examinations.
• Consult a doctor immediately if you notice a wound, swelling, redness or unusual warmth.

Expert Care for Diabetic Foot Problems at Caritas Hospital

Diabetic foot complications should never be ignored. Conditions such as diabetic foot ulcers, infections, foot deformities and Charcot foot can become serious if not diagnosed and treated at the right time.

At Caritas Hospital, Kottayam, timely medical evaluation, appropriate treatment and preventive care play an important role in managing diabetic foot conditions. Seeking expert medical attention at the earliest signs of a foot problem can help prevent complications and preserve mobility.

Protect your feet. Prevent complications. Take the first step towards healthier living with expert care at Caritas Hospital.