Nearly 2 out of 10 diabetic patients may develop a condition known as diabetic foot. Diabetic foot is mainly treatable, especially with early diagnosis and targeted treatments addressing its underlying causes.

Experts suggest that diabetes can lead to severe foot problems with neuropathic or vascular causes. Treatment approaches differ depending on the cause, and early diagnosis is vital. Patients need to recognize the signs and symptoms of diabetic foot and seek medical attention promptly.

Signs and Symptoms to Be Aware of

Before developing the typical diabetic foot sores, such as leg and foot ulcers that might lead to infections and, in severe cases, amputation of part of the foot or limb, individuals might experience milder signs and symptoms such as:

  • Tingling sensation in the feet
  • Pain in the calves while walking
  • Feeling of coldness in the feet despite warm skin
  • Restless legs and feet, even when in bed
  • Skin sensations resembling bruises or spots

Since diabetic foot often occurs alongside other health issues like neuropathic and vascular problems, blood sugar imbalance, chronic kidney disease, ischemic heart disease, and more, a multidisciplinary team of specialists is typically involved in care, including:

  • Vascular Surgeon
  • Radiologist
  • Orthopedist
  • Diabetologist
  • Nephrologist
  • Cardiologist
  • Podiatrist
  • Nurse

In the basic model, the diabetic foot care team consists of a physician, a nurse, and a podiatrist. These key figures are responsible for assessing the ulcerative risk of patients through specific screenings.

Treatment Approaches

The multidisciplinary team can determine the root cause based on symptoms, skin signs, and various tests and examinations, allowing them to initiate the most appropriate treatment. The treatment can be either surgical or nonsurgical (conservative).

For ischemic symptoms and lesions caused by severe arteriopathy, revascularization or bypass surgery is necessary to save the foot and limb. This intervention is performed in an inpatient setting. In cases of infection, surgical cleansing is required to repair the affected tissues. Following surgery, patients require outpatient dressings and care and may need to use aids like braces or special shoes until complete healing. Patients can be treated conservatively with outpatient dressings and appropriate shoes in less severe cases, such as minor foot or leg injuries.

10 Tips for Diabetic Foot Care

Experts emphasize that not all diabetic individuals will experience diabetic foot issues, but all need to learn how to care for their feet. This care is not just for prevention but represents the key element in reducing the risk of new ulcers forming after surgical interventions. Podiatrists play a crucial role in diabetic foot ulcer prevention. They are responsible for:

  • Proper nail trimming
  • Corn and callus removal
  • Providing advice on skin cleansing and care
  • Recommending suitable footwear and orthotics to prevent typical diabetic foot ulcers

Hence, daily care is crucial:

  • Regularly inspect your feet, including the spaces between the toes. You can use a mirror or ask someone for help;
  • Wash your feet with lukewarm running water and a pH-balanced soap;
  • Dry your feet thoroughly and moisturize them, especially if your skin is dry;
  • Wear soft, seamless socks;
  • Choose shoes that fit your foot’s size and shape. If recommended by specialists, use specific footwear and slippers;
  • Check your shoes for foreign objects before wearing them;
  • Avoid high-heeled or pointy shoes;
  • Do not walk barefoot;
  • Trim your nails without sharp scissors or clippers; use a cardboard file instead;
  • Consult a podiatrist if you have complications like vasculopathy or neuropathy.