Diabetics are prone to having foot problems. These problems are caused primarily by two things: poor circulation and nerve damage (neuropathy). Neuropathy is responsible for a loss of feeling in your feet. It removes the ability to feel pain.

Most of us don’t think of pain as a good thing, but it is one of the body’s most important defense systems. Pain alerts us to physical problems. If you don’t feel pain, you don’t know there is a problem. And if you don’t know there is a problem, you aren’t likely to take steps to rectify it. In diabetics, this can result in injuries that go unnoticed and untreated. It can result in foot ulcers that the diabetic isn’t even aware of. It can result in the necessity for amputation.

Diabetics need to be very aware of their feet and lower legs. The feet and the lower legs should be visually inspected every day. They need to look for:

1. Sores that don’t heal

2. Corns and calluses

3. Overly dry and cracked skin

4. Nail problems (ingrown toenails and fungal infections)

5. Changes in circulation (change in the color of the toes)

Diabetics should never go barefooted. It is important that they wear shoes and socks or stockings during waking hours. Special shoes are available for diabetics. They won’t win any fashion prizes, but they can play a vital role in helping to keep the feet healthy and helping to avoid many of the foot problems suffered by diabetics.

There are no miracle cures for diabetes — yet. Maybe someday there will be. Maybe someday doctors will know how to reverse the problem. That day isn’t here yet. If you are a diabetic, I cannot stress strongly enough how important it is that you examine your feet and lower legs daily and seek help at the first sign of trouble.