What is Diabetic Foot?

Diabetic foot is a common condition affecting 19-34% of people with diabetes worldwide, who number around 537 million. However, proper blood sugar management and daily foot care can significantly reduce the risk of developing this condition.

What is Diabetic Foot?

Diabetic foot encompasses a range of problems that can affect a diabetic patient’s feet. Diabetes can lead to complications affecting the nerves and blood vessels in the feet, making them more susceptible to injuries (such as infections or wounds) and slower to heal. If not treated promptly, these issues can worsen and may lead to tissue death (gangrene).

Causes of Diabetic Foot

Chronic high blood sugar levels lead to nerve damage, poor blood circulation, and weakened immune function. This results in reduced sensation in the feet, making it difficult to notice any injuries or wounds and slowing their healing. This increases the risk of infection and its rapid spread. If not addressed immediately, it can lead to more severe complications.

Symptoms of Diabetic Foot

If you have diabetes and notice any of the following symptoms, consult your doctor immediately:

Nerve Problems: Numbness, tingling, or decreased pain sensation over time, increasing the risk of unnoticed injuries.
Pain or Cramping: Burning or discomfort in the feet, especially during physical activity or rest.
Wounds or Ulcers: Slow-healing wounds or sores from minor injuries or pressure.
Skin Changes: Redness, warmth, or color changes in the skin of the feet.
Loss of Temperature Sensation: Inability to feel heat or cold.
Dry or Cracked Skin
Calluses or Thickened Skin: Possibly with dried blood inside.
Ingrown Toenails
Thick, Yellow Toenails
Hair Loss: On the feet and toes.
Foot Deformities: Changes in the shape of the foot over time.
Infections: Including fungal infections like athlete’s foot, which may be black or foul-smelling.

Prioritize your foot health today! If you experience any of these symptoms or other unusual signs, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with the Endocrinology and Diabetes Department at the Saudi Hospital for early detection and effective management of diabetic foot complications.

Diagnosis of Diabetic Foot

Diagnosing diabetic foot includes:

Medical History Review: General health, duration of diabetes, and any previous foot problems.
Clinical Examination: Looking for signs of nerve damage, poor blood circulation, and any existing wounds or ulcers using tools like a tuning fork and ultrasound.
Blood Tests: Including glucose tests, especially HbA1c to assess diabetes management over the past 2-3 months, and a complete blood count (CBC) to evaluate infection markers.
Imaging Tests: Such as X-rays to detect fractures or dislocations, and MRI or CT scans to assess soft tissue damage, infections, or bone deformities.

Treatment of Diabetic Foot

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and involves a comprehensive approach:

In Mild and Early Cases:
- Wound Care: Clean the wounds thoroughly, apply dressings, and remove dead tissue (debridement).
- Special Footwear: Use shoes or orthotics to reduce pressure on affected areas and promote healing.
In Cases of Infection:
- Pain Relief: Nerve pain medications.
- Antibiotics: Topical, oral, or intravenous antibiotics.
- Surgical Drainage: For severe cases, regular dressing changes and surgical debridement may be necessary.
In Advanced Stages:
- Advanced Treatments: Antibiotics, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and blood thinners to improve blood flow.
- Surgical Intervention: If necessary, to treat blood vessels, remove damaged tissue, or even amputation in extreme cases, but only as a last resort.

Complications of Diabetic Foot

Potential complications include:

Skin and Bone Infections
Tissue Death (Gangrene)
Charcot Foot: Bone damage and deformities due to neuropathy.
Amputation: In severe, non-responsive cases where ulcers do not heal.

Prevention of Diabetic Foot Complications

Controlling blood sugar levels and daily foot care are the best measures to prevent diabetic foot issues. Good foot care for diabetics includes:

Manage Blood Sugar: Through medication, diet, and exercise.
Daily Foot Inspection: Check for wounds or signs of infection and see a doctor if any are found.
Foot Hygiene: Wash feet daily with warm water and soap, and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.
Nail Care: Trim nails straight across and smooth sharp edges; seek professional help if needed.
Comfortable Footwear: Wear well-fitting shoes that provide support and protect the feet. Avoid ill-fitting shoes and walking barefoot.
Moisture-Absorbing Socks: Wear cotton socks of the right size.
Quit Smoking: Smoking impairs circulation and increases the risk of complications.
Avoid Barefoot Walking: Especially outdoors, and even indoors if possible.
Regular Check-ups: Have your feet examined by a doctor regularly.
Control Other Health Conditions: Such as high blood pressure and cholesterol.