Diabetic Foot: Understanding, Prevention and Management
Diabetic foot is a common complication of diabetes and a leading cause of lower extremity amputations. It is a result of a combination of peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage), peripheral arterial disease (circulation problems), and increased risk of infections. People with uncontrolled or poorly managed diabetes have a high risk of developing diabetic foot problems.
Understanding Diabetic Foot
Diabetic neuropathy is one of the most common causes of diabetic foot. It affects the nerves in the feet, leading to a loss of sensation, which can cause the individual to be unaware of injuries, cuts, blisters, or other problems that occur in the foot. The lack of sensation can also cause the individual to apply too much pressure to certain areas of the foot, leading to calluses, corns, and other foot problems.
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is another cause of diabetic foot. PAD is a circulatory problem that occurs when there is a buildup of plaque in the arteries, reducing blood flow to the legs and feet. This can lead to pain, numbness, and other symptoms. In severe cases, PAD can lead to gangrene, which is the death of tissue due to lack of blood flow.
Diabetic foot problems are also often caused by increased risk of infections. People with diabetes have a higher risk of developing foot infections due to poor circulation and a weakened immune system. In some cases, infections can spread quickly and become serious, leading to hospitalization or even amputation.
Prevention of Diabetic Foot
The best way to prevent diabetic foot problems is to manage diabetes properly. This includes maintaining good blood glucose control, monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol, and kidney function, and receiving regular check-ups from a healthcare provider. It is also important to practice good foot care, such as wearing shoes that fit well and provide good support, checking the feet regularly for cuts, blisters, or other injuries, and keeping the feet clean and dry.
People with diabetes should also avoid smoking, as it can worsen peripheral neuropathy and increase the risk of developing PAD. Exercising regularly can also help to improve circulation and reduce the risk of diabetic foot problems.
Management of Diabetic Foot
If you have diabetic foot problems, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Early treatment can help to prevent the problem from becoming more serious and can also improve the chances of a successful outcome. Treatment may involve antibiotics to treat infections, surgery to treat PAD, or medications to manage nerve pain.
In some cases, individuals with diabetic foot problems may need to wear special shoes or inserts to provide extra support and cushioning. Physical therapy and other treatments may also be recommended to improve circulation and reduce pain.
It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to develop a plan for managing diabetic foot problems. This may involve regular check-ups, lifestyle changes, and ongoing treatment to prevent the problem from becoming more serious.
Conclusion
Diabetic foot is a common and serious complication of diabetes. It is caused by a combination of peripheral neuropathy, peripheral arterial disease, and increased risk of infections. The best way to prevent diabetic foot problems is to manage diabetes properly, practice good foot care, and seek treatment as soon as problems arise. With proper management, people with diabetes can reduce their risk of developing serious foot problems and enjoy good health and mobility. Dr. A. Arrazaghi. MD,FRCPC