How Diabetes Can Worsen Foot Health: Here’s What You Need to Know
- Matthew Jolly
- Oct 7
- 3 min read
Diabetes is a growing health concern in the UK, particularly among older adults. According to Diabetes UK, over 4.3 million people were living with diabetes as of 2022-2023, with type 2 diabetes accounting for around 90% of these cases*1. The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases with age, especially after 40. In fact, people over the age of 65 are significantly more likely to be diagnosed due to factors like reduced physical activity, a slow-down in metabolism, and the impacts of long-term dietary habits.
Unfortunately, there is also a growing trend for people under the age of 40 in the UK being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. This is highlighted by Diabetes UK in a report from 2024 showing a 40% increase in diagnoses of type 2 diabetes in younger people between 2016-2017 and 2022-2023*2. Studies indicate that type 2 diabetes has a disproportionate impact on children from deprived backgrounds as well as people from Black and South Asian communities.
Whilst much attention is rightly focused on managing blood sugar levels, one area that often gets overlooked is foot health. For people living with diabetes, especially type 2, even minor foot issues can quickly escalate into serious complications if they are not properly managed.
The Link Between Diabetes and Foot Health
Diabetes can severely impact foot health due to two main factors.
1. Diabetic Neuropathy
Over time, persistently high blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy. The condition is particularly prevalent in the extremities like the feet. It reduces sensation in the feet, making it difficult to feel cuts, blisters or sores. As a result, injuries can go unnoticed and untreated which increases the risk of infection or ulcers.
2. Poor Circulation
Diabetes can cause narrowing of the blood vessels, leading to reduced blood flow to the legs and feet. Poor circulation slows down the healing process, making it harder for the body to fight infections especially where there is dry open skin or scratches, blisters, cuts and injuries have occurred.
A combination of nerve damage and poor blood flow make the feet particularly vulnerable to serious complications.
Why Dry Feet in Diabetes Sufferers Are a Bigger Problem Than You May Think
A common, but often underestimated issue for people with diabetes, is dry skin on the feet. The ageing process can often lead to dry skin on the feet for elderly people [https://www.pedistick.com/post/why-do-elderly-people-often-experience-dry-skin-on-their-feet], but diabetes can worsen the impact and lead to problems in both young and old diabetic patients. Dry skin can cause cracking, which then increases the risk of infections, especially when the cracks are deep.
While dry feet may seem like just a cosmetic concern, for someone with diabetes, it can be the start of a chain reaction leading to ulcers, infections, and even amputations if left untreated. Prevention of dry skin, regular inspections and daily care routines are therefore crucial.
Tips for Managing Foot Health in Diabetes Sufferers
Here are some essential tips for maintaining foot health if you have diabetes:
1. Moisturise Daily (But Not Between the Toes)
Using a good quality moisturiser can help keep skin soft and well-hydrated to prevent cracking. It is important to avoid applying cream between the toes, as excess moisture there can lead to fungal infections. PediStick [https://www.pedistick.com/how-to-use] can be used to help you apply cream hygienically even in cases where the feet are difficult to reach.
2. Inspect Feet Daily
Check your feet every day to look for signs of blisters, cuts, redness, swelling or cracked skin. If you have trouble seeing the bottoms of your feet, use a mirror or ask someone for help.
3. Wear Protective Footwear
Never walk barefoot even at home. Instead, wear well-fitting shoes or slippers to protect your feet from injury. Avoid high heels and tight shoes that can rub and cause blisters. Always check inside your shoes for debris before putting them on.
4. Control Blood Sugar Levels
One of the most effective ways to prevent foot complications is to keep your blood glucose levels within your target range. After being diagnosed with diabetes, always follow the advice of your doctor and diabetes specialists who should advise on your care and management of your condition. Good blood sugar control reduces the risk of nerve damage and improves circulation.
5. Visit a Podiatrist Regularly
Even if your feet seem healthy, regular check-ups with a podiatrist are important. They can spot early warning signs before serious complications develop and help with nail care and callus removal as well as advising on suitable footwear.
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