Diabetic foot is a severe complication of diabetes mellitus characterized by damage to the blood vessels, nerves, bones, and soft tissues of the foot. Without timely treatment, it can lead to infection, tissue necrosis, and the need for amputation.
1. Causes of Diabetic Foot
🔹 Main risk factors
✔ Long-term elevated blood glucose levels (chronic hyperglycemia)
✔ Diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage → reduced sensation)
✔ Angiopathy (impaired blood circulation in the leg vessels)
✔ Foot deformities (hammer toes, flat feet)
✔ Injuries, calluses, ingrown toenails (often unnoticed due to reduced sensation)
2. Forms of Diabetic Foot
Form | Characteristics | Main manifestations
Neuropathic | Nerve damage | Dry skin, reduced sensitivity, foot deformities
Ischemic | Impaired blood flow | Pale skin, pain while walking, cold feet
Mixed | Combination of neuropathy and ischemia | Features of both forms
3. Symptoms and Stages of Development
Early signs
Dryness and peeling of the skin
Numbness, tingling, burning sensations in the feet
Toe deformities (hammer toes)
Thickened nails, calluses
Late manifestations
Cracks and ulcers (often painless due to neuropathy)
Wound infection (redness, pus, unpleasant odor)
Gangrene (blackening of tissues)
4. Treatment of Diabetic Foot
✅ Conservative methods
✔ Blood glucose control (the cornerstone of treatment!)
✔ Antibiotics for infection
✔ Vascular medications (pentoxifylline, prostaglandins)
✔ Local wound care (antiseptics, specialized dressings)
✅ Surgical treatment
Removal of necrotic tissue
Angioplasty and bypass surgery (in cases of ischemia)
Amputation (in advanced stages)
5. Prevention of Diabetic Foot
✔ Daily foot inspection (using a mirror or with help from relatives)
✔ Proper foot care (gentle washing, moisturizing, careful nail trimming)
✔ Wearing specialized footwear (soft, seamless, with orthopedic insoles)
✔ Avoid walking barefoot (even at home!)
✔ Regular check-ups with a podiatrist and an endocrinologist
Conclusion
Diabetic foot is a serious complication—but it can be prevented. The key factors are good blood sugar control, daily foot care, and prompt medical attention for any changes.
Important: Even a small wound in diabetes can lead to serious consequences—do not self-medicate.