Even small or superficial injuries to your legs or feet can be potentially very serious if you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Something as simple as a stubbed toe, splinter, or blister can turn into a major injury if not treated properly. attend immediately. and correctly. The reason for this is that uncontrolled blood sugar levels can cause damage and numb your response to pain and slow the healing process in a number of ways:

• Neuropathy (nerve damage) is a common side effect of type 2 diabetes and often affects the lower extremities, as the longest nerves are the most vulnerable. This can lead to small cuts or blisters becoming noticeable until they become infected from loss of sensation.
• poor circulation can prevent blood from reaching the extremities. This is another reason type 2 diabetics have trouble healing
• Many diabetics, both type 1 and type 2, also have a weakened immune system that slows healing and makes it difficult to fight infections.

Neuropathy is a potentially serious condition as it removes the warning people get when their feet are damaged. People with loss of feeling in their feet should have regular (daily) foot checks and follow their specialist’s advice regarding footwear. Properly fitting shoes are a must, and special stockings can be obtained to increase circulation to the legs and feet. You can also find socks that “wick” moisture away from your feet.

Avoid complications: Feet should be kept clean and moisturized, and an antifungal gel should be used between the toes to protect against athlete’s foot. Always check your footwear before you wear it for worn spots or pebbles. Toenails should be kept neatly trimmed and overgrown toenails, cracked heels, or any other injury should be attended to immediately.

Type 2 diabetics who sustain a wound should seek immediate treatment to prevent infection and promote rapid healing. Leg and foot injuries are particularly dangerous as the lower extremities are prone to swelling, which can also significantly delay healing.

Wound Treatment: When a diabetic treats wounds, it is best to follow a strict protocol:

• all wounds should be disinfected as soon as possible and thoroughly cleaned under running water
• then the wound must be medicated according to the instructions and
• covered loosely but securely (pressure on the wound should be avoided).

Often with injuries to the feet or legs, rest is recommended. Any pressure on a foot wound can cause it to reopen, and a leg wound can also reopen if the leg swells. If severe infection occurs, amputation may become necessary, making it imperative to treat wounds quickly and effectively.

If you have severe type 2 diabetes, it is recommended that a podiatrist be part of your medical team. Regular inspection of your legs and feet can provide early detection of any problems and prevent a minor injury from turning into a life-threatening one.

Exercises for diabetics with peripheral neuropathy: Peripheral neuropathy affects balance and numbs the feet. Avoid exercises that use your feet, for example. jogging or running A treadmill on which you can stabilize is preferable. The best exercises include:

• swimming
• sitting exercises
• ride a stationary bike
• rowing
• floor exercises

they are suitable options for type 1 and type 2 diabetics with peripheral neuropathy.