Some people with diabetes develop numbness in the feet or poor blood flow. That can make it difficult to notice blisters, sores and cuts. Undetected and untreated wounds can quickly become infected, leading to complications and sometimes amputation. There are many strategies to protect your from wounds and infection.

What are diabetes-related foot conditions?

People with diabetes often have problems with their feet. They may develop foot develop sores, deformities and infections more easily.

If not treated quickly, a foot ulcer or blister on a person with diabetes can get infected. Sometimes a surgeon must amputate (remove) a toe, foot or part of the leg to prevent the spread of infection.

Who might have problems with diabetes-related foot conditions?

Foot problems often occur in people with diabetes, especially among those who have:

• Nerve damage or poor blood flow in the feet.

• Trouble managing blood glucose levels over long periods, including frequent episodes of hyperglycemia (blood sugar that’s too high).

• A BMI of more than 25 (overweight/obesity).

• Had diabetes for a long time.

• High blood pressure or high cholesterol.

How common are diabetes-related foot conditions?

The chance that a person with diabetes will develop a foot condition at some time in their life is about 15%.

What are the symptoms of diabetes-related neuropathy?

The signs of diabetes-related neuropathy may include:

• Darkened skin on the affected area.

• Diminished ability to sense hot or cold.

• Loss of hair in the area.

• Numbness.

• Pain.

• Tingling.

If diabetes-related neuropathy leads to foot ulcers, symptoms to watch out for include:

• Any changes to the skin or toenails, including cuts, blisters, calluses or sores.

• Discharge of fluid or pus.

• Foul smell.

• Pain.

• Redness.

• Skin discoloration.

• Swelling.

How are diabetes-related foot ulcers treated?

Care for diabetes-related foot pain may involve a doctor who specializes in the feet, called a podiatrist. Treatment may include:

• Cleaning the wound.

• Draining any fluid or pus from the ulcer.

• Removing or cutting away dead or infected tissue (called debridement).

• Applying special bandages and ointments to absorb extra fluid, protect the wound and help it heal.

• Prescribing a wheelchair or crutches to take weight off the affected foot (called offloading).

• Prescribing oral or IV antibiotics to manage and eliminate infection.

Depending on how severe the infection is, your healthcare provider may recommend hospitalization. Sometimes amputation is necessary to prevent infection from spreading to other parts of the body.