People suffering from diabetes are prone to having problems with their foot, often because of two complications: nerve damage and poor circulation. Nerve damage, also called neuropathy, causes loss of sensation in your feet, taking away your capability to feel pain and discomfort; hence, you may not detect a bruise, irritation, or wound. Poor circulation in your lower limbs reduces your ability to heal, bringing about a difficulty for even a tiny cut to withstand infection.

Having diabetes increases the chances of developing a wide range of foot and leg problems. Furthermore, with diabetes, small foot issues can turn into serious complications.
A few of the foot and leg problems affected by diabetes are infections and sores that take too long to heal, Charcot foot, corns and calluses, dry and cracked skin, hammertoes and bunions, nail disorders, and weak blood flow.
In diabetes, arteries and veins below the knee often become tight, restricting blood flow. This prevents wounds from recovering and may cause tissue death.
Your surgeon can help your wounds heal, preventing amputation. There are a lot of new surgical techniques available to save feet and legs, including joint reconstruction and wound dressing technologies. Getting regular foot checkups and looking for immediate help when you notice something could keep small problems from worsening. Your surgeon works together with other doctors to prevent and treat complications.
You, as well, play a vital role in preventing complications. Inspect your feet every day. If your eyesight is poor, ask someone else to do it for you. Check for nail or skin problems and indications of fracture. If your foot is distended, hot, red, or has changed in direction, shape, or size, see your surgeon immediately.
Do not ignore leg soreness. Pain in the leg that happens at night or with little activity could signify a blocked artery. Seek medical care right away.
Never trim calluses or corns on your own, and do not use over-the-counter medications.
Make sure there are no needles, syringes, or other sharp items on the floor. Always wear shoes or slippers, indoors and outdoors. Shake out your shoes before wearing them.
Have your circulation and sensation tested. Your foot and ankle doctor will perform tests to check if you have lost sensation or circulation on your feet or legs.
Nevertheless, even with preventive care and prompt management of infection and complications, there are still cases when amputation is necessary to remove an affected tissue, save a limb, or even help you in your recovery.