Diabetic foot is one of the most serious complications of diabetes. That’s what it’s all about.
When the body cannot adequately manage blood sugar levels, it can find itself struggling with various health problems; Among the most serious is the so-called diabetic foot, a chronic complication of diabetes which, together with trauma due to accidents, is one of the main causes of amputation of the lower limbs.
In reality, behind the expression “diabetic foot” different disorders can be hidden.
The main ones are diabetic neuropathy and diabetic arterial disease, pathologies that involve, respectively, the nerves and arteries of the lower limbs.
Both neuropathy and peripheral arterial disease can lead to ulcers that may in turn require amputation, especially when ulcer infections or osteomyelitis (bone marrow infections) occur.
However, the factors that can contribute to the onset of diabetic foot are also others, for example:
- poor mobility of the joints
- foot deformity
- old age
- chronic kidney disease and other aspects of the general health status of the diabetic patient.
The problem, associated with poor blood sugar control, can appear with any form of diabetes and is more common among men and patients over 60 years of age.
Why do ulcers form?
According to estimates, between 45 and 60% of ulcers that appear on the feet of diabetic patients are caused by neuropathy; 45% of ulcerations would instead have at its base the combined effect of neuropathy and arterial disease.
The reason why neuropathy can lead to the formation of these deep wounds is the loss of sensitivity and coordination of the muscles in the foot and leg, which increases the mechanical stresses to which the foot is subjected while walking.
For example, it may happen that you do not notice a pain due to contact with shoes, which can end up damaging the tissues of the feet; Or, the damage can result from exposure to temperatures that are too high or too low which, again due to insensitivity, are not realized.
Arterial diseases promoted by diabetes can instead compromise the blood supply to the lower limbs, depriving the tissues of oxygen and nutrients.
The presence of arterial disease alters the healing ability of ulcers, promotes infections, makes treatment difficult and can accelerate the gangrene process.
How to prevent and deal with diabetic foot
The prevention and management of diabetic foot pass first of all from the control of blood sugar; It is also important to keep blood pressure and fat levels under control.
The appearance of ulcers can also be avoided and managed using special footwear and with adequate foot care.
It is advisable, for example:
- check the health of the feet every day
- Gently cleanse them with soap and water
- keep the skin hydrated
- In the event that wounds form, have them evaluated immediately by a doctor, who may deem it necessary to clean them, prescribe antibiotics or specific procedures such as arteriography and angioplasty, potentially useful in case of diabetic arterial disease.
Joycelyn Elders is the author and creator of EmpowerEssence, a health and wellness blog. Elders is a respected public health advocate and pediatrician dedicated to promoting general health and well-being.
The blog covers a wide range of topics related to health and wellness, with articles organized into several categories.