In this Article

• Introduction
• How can diabetes affect my feet?
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Peripheral vascular disease
• What are some common foot problems of people with diabetes?
• Athlete's foot
• Fungal infection of nails
• Calluses
• Corns
• Blisters
• Bunions
• Dry skin
• Foot ulcers
• Hammertoes
• Ingrown toenails
• Planter warts
• Can these foot problems be prevented?
• When should I contact my doctor?
• Foot Problems (Diabetes) Glossary
• Foot Problems (Diabetes) Index

Foot ulcers

A foot ulcer is a break in the skin or a deep sore, which can become infected. Foot ulcers can result from minor scrapes, cuts that heal slowly or from the rubbing of shoes that do not fit well. Early intervention is important in treatment. Ask your doctor for advice on how to best care for your wound.

Hammertoes

A hammertoe is a toe that is bent because of a weakened muscle. The weakened muscle makes the tendons (tissues that connect muscles to bone) shorter, causing the toes to curl under the feet. Hammertoes can run in families. They can also be cause by shoes that are too short. Hammertoes can cause problems with walking and can lead to other foot problems, such as blisters, calluses, and sores. Splinting and corrective footwear can help in treating them. In severe cases, surgery to straighten the toe may be necessary.

Ingrown toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when the edges of the nail grow into the skin. They cause pressure and pain along the nail edges. The edge of the nail may cut into the skin, causing redness, swelling, pain, drainage and infection. The most common cause of ingrown toenails is pressure from shoes. Other causes include improperly trimmed nails, crowding of the toes and repeated trauma to the feet from activities such as running, walking or doing aerobics. Keeping your toenails properly trimmed is the best way to prevent ingrown toenails. If you have a persistent problem or if you have a nail infection, you may need a doctor's care. Severe problems with ingrown nails may be corrected with surgery to remove part of the toenail and growth plate.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• Diabetes - Learn about type 1 and 2 diabetes (Diabetes Mellitus) symptoms including increased urination, thirst, weight loss, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, skin infections, and blurred vision. Causes and diagnosis information is provided in the information.
• Athlete's Foot - Get the facts on athlete's foot causes, symptoms, treatment, transmission and prevention. Vinegar and over-the-counter remedies may be used to treat foot fungus.
• Foot Pain - Read about causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of foot pain. Pain in the feet may be caused by poorly fitting shoes, injuries, or diseases such as diabetes and gout.

Read more Foot Problems (Diabetes) related articles »

Latest Medical News

• Health Tip: Foot Care for People With Diabetes
• Health Tip: Triggers for Foot Arthritis