Throughout the world, foot problems are one of the most serious and costly complications of diabetes. Up to 70% of leg amputations are diabetes-related.To increase awareness of diabetic foot complications, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) have devoted World Diabetes Day 2005 to this condition.
Nerve damage and inadequate blood supply are at the root of foot problems which can lead to dangerous ulcers. In fact, 85% of lower-body amputations are preceded by a foot ulcer. And in developed countries such as the US, 1 in 6 people with diabetes will have an ulcer during their lifetime.
The IDF has listed some warning signs of impending foot problems:
- Swelling of the foot or ankle
- Very cold feet or legs
- Color changes: red, blue or black discoloration
- Pain in legs at rest or while walking
- Open sores, no matter how small
- Non healing wounds
- In-growing toe nails
- Corns and calluses
- Lack of hair growth on the foot
