Folks who have been diagnosed with diabetes will quickly learn that there are many changes they must make in their lives. From checking their blood sugar levels to changing their diet and activities, there are many lifestyle changes involved. This includes checking the feet daily in case of secondary issues that arise due to the way diabetes affects the body.

The following are common secondary issues that affect the feet for people who have diabetes:

• Diabetic peripheral neuropathy: The most common of issues, diabetes can cause high blood sugar levels, which can damage nerves. This results in a burning sensation that turns into a reduction or loss of sensation.
• Diabetic dermopathy: Occurring mostly on the lower parts of the leg, there may be increased pigmentation that look like small scars. This may even begin to occur before diabetes is diagnosed. However, this may not necessarily cause other health problems, other than skin appearance.
• Diabetic callus build-up, ulcer, and infection: Calluses form on the foot due to external friction and pressure on the feet. When there is some loss of sensation, it’s more likely that there is a breakdown of skin under the calluses. A hidden ulcer can occur, which can be hard to treat and cause infection. If the callus and ulcer are not properly treated by our podiatrist, infection can affect deep parts of the tissue and even the bone.
• Diabetic Charcot foot: A type of arthritis that can lead to fractures and dislocations of bones and joints from nerve damage and poor circulation. Leaving these untreated can lead to foot deformity or severe infection.

Make sure you treat your feet well to prevent incidence of secondary issues. Check them daily and take care of any issues that arise sooner than later. If any foot-related developments occur, it’s best to see our podiatrist quickly.

If you have further questions about diabetic foot complications, contact your local podiatrist at Texas Foot Works. Dr. Jonathan M. Kletz is more than happy to discuss this topic more in detail and find solutions for any problems you may come across. Make an appointment today at any of our offices in Abrams (Dallas), Athens, and Gun Barrell City, TX!