Diabetes patients are very susceptible to infections which can become serious ulcers. A small wound may not heal and ultimately lead to amputation.

Diabetes not only weakens the immune system but also affects the nervous system (neuropathy). Neuropathy generally affects the hands and feet (such as tingling or pins and needles in the hands and feet). Over time, this can result in loss of all feeling in the extremities. The result of numbness in the feet is that minor injuries may not be felt and may not heal as well, causing ulcers.

In addition to this, wearing improper shoes/chappals can make some part of the foot to bear more pressure leading to wounds and aggravating into ulcers. Diabetes can cause decreased blood flow to the legs delaying the healing process.

Common problems of the feet in diabetics:

Callus/Corn: These thick skin-layered malformations develop because of undue pressure or friction on one part of the foot. Special kind of shoes are useful in such cases.

Blisters: These are caused by undue friction against the foot inside shoes.

Hammertoes: Weakness caused by diabetic nerve damage can weaken foot muscles causing these malformations.

Tests and Treatment
Consult the doctor if you ‘feel’ decreased sensation in the feet. This can be medically detected through Mono Filament Test, Vibration Test by Tuning Fork, Biothesiometry, Temperature Perception Threshold, Nerve Conduction study. Decreased flow of blood in feet can be detected through Doppler study and Photoplathysmography. Your doctor may recommend you to visit a podiatrist (footcare specialist) who can help you teach you how to take care of your feet and suggest how to buy properly fitting shoes.