Having diabetes can damage the nerves and blood vessels that supply your legs and feet. This puts affected people at increased risk of developing ulcers on the feet and legs which can become infected, and in the worst cases, develop gangrene (where the tissue dies, resulting in the need for amputation).
How do you know if diabetes is affecting your legs?
If diabetes damages nerves in your arms or legs, it’s called diabetic peripheral neuropathy. This condition can be a direct result of long-term high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia) in those who have diabetes. Pain, burning, tingling, and numbness are common symptoms.
Can you get rid of diabetic neuropathy in your feet?
There is currently no way to reverse diabetic neuropathy, although scientists are working on future treatments. For now, the best approach is to manage blood sugar levels through medication and lifestyle changes. Keeping glucose within target levels can reduce the risk of developing neuropathy and its complications.
What does diabetic foot look like?
Although rare, nerve damage from diabetes can lead to changes in the shape of your feet, such as Charcot’s foot. Charcot’s foot may start with redness, warmth, and swelling. Later, bones in your feet and toes can shift or break, which can cause your feet to have an odd shape, such as a “rocker bottom.”
Is walking good for diabetic foot pain?
Becoming more active can help you control blood sugar levels, feel good, and lighten the load on painful feet and legs, especially if you’re overweight.
How do you treat diabetic feet?
Diabetes Foot Care Guidelines
- Inspect your feet daily.
- Bathe feet in lukewarm, never hot, water.
- Be gentle when bathing your feet.
- Moisturize your feet but not between your toes.
- Cut nails carefully.
- Never treat corns or calluses yourself.
- Wear clean, dry socks.
How do you stop diabetic leg pain?
Here are nine tips to help manage and relieve diabetic leg pain.
- Use exercise to promote overall health.
- Eat a diabetic-friendly diet.
- Manage weight.
- Maintain appropriate blood sugar levels.
- Practice daily foot and leg care.
- Build healthier habits for compounded prevention.
- Try physical therapy.
What is the connection between diabetes and swollen feet?
Several physical disorders may cause a connection between diabetes and swollen feet. Excessive fluid deposited in the muscles and tissues leads to swelling. For diabetics, one of the most common underlying culprits is neuropathy, which is a degenerative disease that affects the nervous system.
What causes leg sores in diabetes?
Diabetes causes the formation of leg ulcer and foot ulcer because of poor circulation of blood in the area brought about by the effects of long term diabetes on the blood vessels.
