How Does Diabetes Affect The Feet?
- My Family Podiatry
- Apr 27, 2021
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 19
Diabetes affects far more than blood sugar levels. One of the most common and serious areas impacted is the feet. In fact, foot complications are one of the leading causes of hospital admission for people living with diabetes.
With diabetes affecting a growing number of Australians, understanding how it impacts foot health is essential. At My Family Podiatry, we regularly see patients from Albany Creek and across North Brisbane who are unaware of early warning signs until a small issue becomes something much more serious.
The good news is that most diabetes related foot problems are preventable with the right care, education, and regular podiatry review.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body regulates blood glucose. Over time, elevated blood sugar levels can damage nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, particularly in the feet.
There are two main types of diabetes, both of which can significantly impact foot health.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition most commonly diagnosed in childhood or adolescence. The body is unable to produce insulin, meaning blood glucose levels must be managed with regular insulin therapy. People with Type 1 diabetes are at lifelong risk of diabetic foot complications and benefit from consistent podiatry monitoring.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is more commonly diagnosed in adulthood, although we are seeing it more frequently in younger individuals. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough to maintain healthy blood glucose levels. Management may involve lifestyle changes, medication, or insulin therapy.
Regardless of the type, long term diabetes can affect the feet in similar ways.
How Does Diabetes Affect the Feet?
Because the feet are at the furthest point from the heart, they are often the first area to show signs of diabetic complications. Diabetes affects the feet through several key mechanisms.
Reduced Circulation
Elevated blood glucose can lead to hardening and narrowing of the arteries. This reduces blood flow to the feet, meaning less oxygen and fewer nutrients reach the tissues. Poor circulation slows wound healing and increases the risk of infection, even from small cuts or blisters.
Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy refers to damage to the nerves in the feet and lower limbs. Early symptoms may include tingling, burning, or altered sensation. Over time, this can progress to numbness or complete loss of feeling.
This is particularly dangerous because injuries may go unnoticed. We often see patients who are unaware of wounds until they see blood on the floor or notice swelling or infection days later.
Changes to Skin and Soft Tissues
High blood sugar levels can bind to collagen and connective tissue, making tendons, ligaments, and skin stiffer and less elastic. This increases the risk of skin breakdown, callus formation, tendon injuries, and joint stiffness.
When neuropathy and poor circulation occur together, the risk of serious complications increases significantly. Undetected wounds can become infected and fail to heal, sometimes leading to hospitalisation or even amputation.
What Can Be Done at Home to Care for Diabetic Feet?
Daily foot care plays a critical role in preventing complications. Simple routines, performed consistently, can make a significant difference.
Maintain Stable Blood Sugar Levels
Keeping blood glucose within recommended ranges helps protect nerves, blood vessels, and skin. This includes following dietary advice, staying active, and taking medications as prescribed.
Inspect Your Feet Every Day
Check the tops and bottoms of your feet daily for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or changes in skin colour. If you have difficulty reaching your feet, use a mirror or ask for help. Early detection prevents small problems from becoming serious.
Wear Protective Footwear
Always wear well fitting, closed toe shoes, even around the house. Before putting shoes on, check inside for stones, rough seams, or foreign objects that could cause injury without being felt.
Avoid Self Treatment of Corns and Callus
Over the counter corn plasters and blades can be dangerous for people with diabetes. These can cause burns or wounds that heal poorly. Thick skin should always be managed by a podiatrist.
How Can a Podiatrist Help?
Regular podiatry care is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of diabetic foot complications.
When to See a Podiatrist
We recommend booking an appointment if you notice:
Any wounds, blisters, or cracks in the skin
Persistent foot pain
Thickened skin or callus
Numbness, tingling, cramping, or shooting pains
Changes in foot shape or colour
Even without symptoms, routine diabetic foot checks are strongly advised.
What Happens During a Diabetic Foot Assessment?
At My Family Podiatry, a diabetic foot check includes:
Review of medical history and medications
Assessment of circulation and nerve function
Skin and nail examination
Footwear assessment
Evaluation of joint mobility and muscle function
We then discuss your individual risk level and create a management plan tailored to your needs and lifestyle.
Ongoing Care and Collaboration
We work closely with your GP and medical team, providing reports and referrals when required. For eligible patients, we offer bulk billed appointments under Chronic Disease Management plans, making regular care accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diabetes and Foot Health
How often should someone with diabetes see a podiatrist?
Diabetics should have a foot check at least annually. For those at a higher risk of developing serious foot complications, feet should be checked every 2-3 months to ensure any issues are caught early.
Can diabetes cause foot pain even without an injury?
Yes. Nerve damage, reduced circulation, and tissue stiffness can all cause pain, burning, or discomfort even without visible injury.
Are diabetic foot problems preventable?
In most cases, yes. Early intervention, good blood sugar control, appropriate footwear, and regular podiatry care significantly reduce risk.
Do I need podiatry care even if my feet feel fine?
We recommend all diabetics have their feet assessed at least once a year. This can detect any early changes and make sure you're well looked after.
Many serious diabetic foot problems develop without pain due to neuropathy. Routine checks allow issues to be detected early.
Final Thoughts
Diabetes can have serious consequences for foot health, but with the right care, most complications are preventable. Regular podiatry assessments, combined with daily foot care and good blood sugar control, play a vital role in maintaining mobility and quality of life.
If you or a family member are living with diabetes and are based in Albany Creek or North Brisbane, our team at My Family Podiatry is here to help.
Call 07 3088 6116 or book online today to arrange a comprehensive diabetic foot assessment.
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