Overview:
Diabetic neuropathy, a condition in which nerve function deteriorates in the body's extremities, leads to a gradual loss of feeling in the hands, arms, legs, and feet. Patients may experience numbness, pain (e.g., tingling, shooting pain, burning sensation), and weakness in the extremities. Diabetics suffering from neuropathy can develop minor cuts, scrapes, blisters, or sores that they may not be aware of due to insensitivity in the feet. If these minor injuries are left untreated, complications may result and lead to ulceration and possibly even amputation. Neuropathy can also cause deformities such as bunions and hammer toes. It is very important for diabetics to take the necessary precautions to prevent all foot-related injuries. Daily observation of the feet is critical. When a diabetic patient takes the necessary preventative foot care measures, he or she reduces the risk of developing serious foot conditions. Treatments: Along with wearing natural fiber socks and proper fitting footwear:
Return to Foot Ailments