Find out more about how diabetes affects the feet:
The NHS website 'my diabetes my way' is a great starting point for learning all about your condition, including this section which explains how diabetes can affect the feet, and what you can do to help care for and monitor your foot health:
https://mydiabetesmyway.scot.nhs.uk/know-more/my-complications/feet/
When should I see a podiatrist?
If you experience any form of neuropathy or pain or discomfort, it is advisable to consult your diabetic clinic or podiatrist, since it is possible in many cases to alleviate these symptoms.
If you see any of the following in your feet, you should also seek medical attention or consult your podiatrist:
- Walking becomes more difficult
- Applying or wearing shoes becomes more difficult
- Tingling sensation or pins and needles
- Part or all of your foot becomes swollen
- Breaks in the skin, opens sores/blisters or a discharge
- Skin colour changes (redder, bluer, paler, blacker) over part or all of the foot
- Swelling in your feet and/or an unusual odour
- Part or all of your foot feels much hotter or colder than usual
- Hard skin (callus)
- Cramp in your calves
- Shiny smooth skin and/or losing hair on your feet and legs
If you experience any foot care issues which do not resolve themselves naturally or through routine foot care within three weeks, it is recommended to seek advice.