Some cases of advanced diabetes can lead to peripheral neuropathy, which is nerve damage in the hands and feet. Consistently high blood sugar that is left unchecked could reduce the ability of your nerves to send signals to your hands and feet. When this happens, it is extremely important to take extra precautions against foot injuries because your ability to feel pain and sensation in your feet is limited.
Why your feet are more prone to damage when you have diabetes
There are a couple of factors at play between the increased risk of foot damage and having diabetes, such as:
- More pressure on the plantar fascia ligament — The plantar fascia ligament is the long ligament that reaches from your heel to your toes. Because it runs along the arch of your foot, the plantar fascia is responsible for carrying the weight of the entire body. Often, diabetes and obesity go hand in hand. That means that people who have diabetes have a higher chance of wearing down their plantar fascia ligament due to extra body weight. When this happens, the damaged ligament can lead to chronic foot pain and joint issues.
- Limited ability to feel injuries — In the case of diabetic neuropathy, you may be limited in your ability to feel any damage happening to your foot. This could cause you to continue to walk and put pressure on a foot that desperately needs to be rested and treated before your injury becomes severe and requires surgery.
One of the best things you can do to protect your feet if you have diabetic neuropathy is to invest in shoe inserts. Inserts can offer the proper support to your plantar fascia ligament to reduce the pressure on the arch of your foot and help prevent injury, especially if you are less likely to feel an injury take place.
At Biocorrect, we offer quality orthotic inserts to help reduce the risk of foot damage due to diabetic neuropathy. Take a look at our custom and over-the-counter products, and contact us with any questions you have.
