Diabetic Foot

Diabetes mellitus or more commonly referred to as diabetes is a condition where the body cannot produce enough insulin therefore increasing blood sugar. Insulin is a hormone responsible for the absorption of sugars into the cells. It is mainly produced by the pancreas. Among the other diseases diabetes can cause, the most common problem affecting the lower extremities is diabetic foot.

Normally, the pancreas produces insulin after meals to regulate carbohydrates and sugars that are absorbed in the gut. In case of diabetes, these regulatory processes fail or are insufficient.

There are two types of diabetes mellitus. Type I diabetes or juvenile diabetes starts from birth, caused by the destruction of the insulin producing cells in the pancreas. For this reason, these patients are insulin dependent. Medications, more particularly the injectable insulin are given for the patient to survive. 

Type II diabetes or adult onset diabetes is the most common type of diabetes accounting for 90% to 95% of all diabetics. In type II, there is high blood sugar but there is less insulin being produced or insulin is not efficient enough to decrease blood sugar. Usually, this is initially treated with dietary modifications and exercise. Insulin medication is used only when diet and exercise fail to decrease blood sugar.

If diabetes is not managed properly, high sugar levels over time can lead to fatty deposits in the blood vessel walls. This can affect blood flow and ultimately get obstructed. When blood vessels are obstructed the peripheral nerves especially on the hands and feet die out. This is why it is important for diabetics to observe foot care.

Due to nerve destruction, a diabetic may have decreased sensation on one foot or both feet. This can hinder a patient from sensing minor injuries to the foot such as cuts or blisters. Coupled with poor blood circulation, these cuts can lead to an infection because of poor wound healing. In some cases, injuries of the foot like sprain, strains, or a fracture can go undetected because the patient cannot feel any foot or heel pain. If these conditions are left undetected, then foot deformities can occur or a foot infection can worsen leading to an amputation.

For this reason, diabetics should learn how to inspect and observe their foot. If a decrease in sensation is noticed, seek medical attention as soon as possible. The key to stopping any foot complications due to diabetes is prevention.

For more information about foot complications due to diabetes and proper foot care, please visit the Family Foot and Leg Center in Naples or Contact Dr. Kevin Lam at (239) 430-3668.