November 13, 2025
CoronaRead the full article here:
Diabetes, a condition in which the body can’t property regulate blood sugar levels, affects every part of the body. Whether high glucose levels are the result of Type I diabetes (in which the body doesn’t produce enough insulin), or Type 2 diabetes (in which the body doesn’t use insulin properly, over time they can damage the heart, arteries, nerves, eyes, and more. Due to the effects diabetes has on circulation and the nervous system, the feet can be affected by a variety of serious problems that impact mobility, quality of life, and overall health.
Because many of these problems can be challenging to combat once they are established, prevention is the preferred strategy for maintaining a diabetic patient’s good health. This includes regular visits to a podiatrist for proper foot care, instructions on daily practices to keep feet healthy between visits, and early detection of potential problems to prevent complications.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, 11.6% of the U.S. population (about 38.4 million people of all ages) had diabetes in 2021. They estimate that about half of those with diabetes have nerve damage from their condition, with the feet and legs being most often affected. Diabetes can also damage blood vessels, particularly in the feet. Together, these effects of diabetes can cause common foot problems that, if not detected early and treated properly, can lead to serious complications. Among these are:
| Issue | What it is | Symptoms | Why it is a problem |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peripheral neuropathy | Damage to the nerves that connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body | • Tingling, numbness, and/or pain in the extremities • Weakness in the feet and/or hands | Can reduce the ability to feel an injury, allowing time for infection to set in before it is detected and treated |
| Peripheral artery disease (PAD) | Narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the legs and arms, usually by atherosclerosis | • Leg pain during activity (claudication) • Numbness in the limbs • Coolness in the limbs • Loss of hair on legs and feet | Poor circulation makes it more difficult for wounds on the feet or legs to heal, increasing the risk of infection |
| Foot ulcers | A sore or open wound on the foot of someone with diabetes | • May start with a small cut or scrape that fails to heal • Persists or gets worse over time • Redness, swelling, and drainage when infected | If foot ulcers do not heal, they can progress to gangrene, requiring amputation |
| Diabetic blisters | Spontaneous blisters, also called bullosisdiabeticorum, that most often appear on the legs, feet, or toes | • Tend to appear in clusters • May be itchy and are not necessarily painful • May be irregularly shaped Filled with clear fluid | May develop into a more serious wound if they break open and/or become infected |
| Edema | Swelling caused by an accumulation of fluid in the body’s tissues | • Noticeable swelling in feet and legs • Shiny appearance to the skin • Feeling of tightness • Achiness or heaviness in the legs • Possible pain or discomfort | Can be a sign of impaired circulation, which may result from poorly controlled blood sugar |
The most important thing any diabetic can do to preserve their health is to carefully monitor their blood sugar levels and keep them under control. Of similar importance, however, is seeing a podiatrist on a regular basis—at least annually, and more often if you are already experiencing complications such as peripheral neuropathy or circulatory problems that make your feet more vulnerable to injury and slow healing.
In between visits, diabetics should:
If you have thickened, irregularly shaped, or fungal toenails that are difficult to cut, then please come see us. Should any problems occur in between visits, even something that seems minor, like a corn or callus, you should consult your podiatrist immediately. Early treatment can prevent small issues from becoming larger, more persistent problems.
At Corona Foot & Ankle, we understand the nightmare that a non-healing foot wound can become for someone with diabetes. We take a preventative approach to foot care intended to keep your feet healthy and injury-free so you can enjoy the active, independent life you deserve. We pair that with advanced wound care techniques to ensure that if you do experience an injury or complication, we will be here to provide the treatment you need to recover. To schedule your appointment, contact us here today.
Frequently asked questions
Diabetes affects circulation and nerve function, which can make even small foot injuries dangerous if left untreated. Regular visits to a podiatrist help detect issues early, prevent infections, and reduce the risk of serious complications like ulcers or amputation.
Most diabetic patients should visit a podiatrist at least once a year. However, if you have neuropathy, poor circulation, or foot wounds, you may need visits every 3–6 months for monitoring and preventive care.
Look for tingling, numbness, burning pain, swelling, redness, wounds that don’t heal, or thickened and irregular toenails. If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist right away.
Have any questions about treatment? Feel free to make an appointment, Our team will reach you soon!
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