Foot Notes
Diabetes may contribute to skin problems on the feet, such as calluses, corns, cracked skin and nail fungus, or structural changes, such as hammertoes and bunions. Beyond those problems, however, damage can become serious or life-threatening.
When people with diabetes develop nerve damage (neuropathy), due to high glucose levels harming blood vessels and nerves, they cannot feel pain when they walk. Ultimately, this may cause more damage in the joints of their feet.
Once joint damage becomes severe, the bony structure of the feet may collapse – a condition called Charcot foot, which may require amputation. Charcot foot also occurs along with RA and psoriatic arthritis, and may be confused with OA or gout early in the process. However, in most cases, Charcot foot develops in those who have had uncontrolled diabetes for 15 to 20 years.
Inspecting the feet daily is a must. Look for ulcers or infected sores that aren’t healing, as they also could lead to amputation.
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