Observed every year on November 14, World Diabetes Day is a global effort to raise awareness about diabetes and its potential complications. With diabetes on the rise, especially in India—the world’s “diabetes capital”—experts stress the importance of early detection and management to prevent serious issues, particularly in foot health.
Dr. Sanjay Sharma, Podiatric Surgeon and Co-Founder of FootSecure, highlights that diabetic foot complications, often overlooked, are a major concern, with risks ranging from nerve damage to possible amputation. Here are some crucial early signs every diabetic patient should watch for to help prevent severe outcomes.
Key Early Signs of Diabetic Foot Disease
Temperature Sensitivity (Sense of Hot and Cold)
Neuropathy, or nerve damage, is common among diabetic patients and can reduce sensitivity to temperature changes. This may result in unnoticed burns or injuries from hot or cold surfaces, as people may not feel discomfort or pain.
Skin Tone Changes
Darkened, shiny skin or hair loss on the feet and lower legs can signal poor blood circulation. Any noticeable difference in color or texture of the feet compared to the rest of the leg should prompt a check-up.
Foot Shape Alterations
Over time, diabetic patients may experience changes in foot shape. A normal arch might develop into a high arch or flatten, toes may claw, and bunions can form. These changes indicate muscle weakness, which should be addressed early to avoid further complications.
Corns and Calluses
Calluses and corns, which are thickened skin areas from pressure or friction, can be early signs of trouble. If left untreated, these can cause wounds and blisters, posing a greater risk for diabetic patients. Regularly inspecting feet for these signs is essential.
Slower Walking Pace
Diabetic foot issues can lead to slower walking due to balance and proprioception problems. A noticeable change in walking speed could be an indicator that foot health needs attention.
Persistent Cramping or Pain
Constant leg cramps or pain, even at rest, may be a sign of inadequate blood supply to the feet, indicating that medical evaluation is necessary.
Critical Indicators for Diabetic Foot Health
If any of the following symptoms arise, consulting a healthcare professional immediately is critical to avoid severe complications:
Numbness or Tingling
Numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation often points to nerve damage. Left unchecked, this can lead to non-healing wounds or eventual amputation if sensation is severely impaired.
Swelling
Persistent foot or leg swelling, especially if accompanied by warmth or discoloration, may suggest infection or poor circulation. Quick diagnosis is necessary to prevent infections or ulcers from worsening.
Non-Healing Wounds or Injuries
Diabetics are more prone to wounds that heal slowly or not at all due to poor circulation. If a cut or sore doesn’t show signs of healing within a week, it may signal a serious issue that could lead to infection or even amputation if ignored.
Changes in Toenail Color or Thickness
Discolored or thick toenails can indicate fungal infections, which are more common in diabetics. These infections can spread if untreated, so monitoring toenail health is essential.
Protecting Foot Health: Prevention Tips
For diabetic patients, prioritizing regular foot inspections and addressing early signs is crucial. Engaging a podiatric specialist in your care routine can help ensure even minor issues don’t lead to serious outcomes. Monthly foot washing, sun drying, or vacuum cleaning are simple yet effective ways to increase foot health longevity.
By recognizing these early signs and taking preventive measures, diabetic patients can protect their foot health and overall well-being. World Diabetes Day serves as a vital reminder to stay vigilant about diabetic foot care and seek timely medical advice for any concerning changes.