
Neuropathy and Foot Health: How Nerve Damage Affects Skin and Nails
- Numbness or Tingling: Many individuals report a “pins and needles” sensation in their feet.
- Pain: Some individuals experience burning, stabbing, or shooting pain that can disrupt daily life.
- Altered Sensations: You might feel unusual sensations or, conversely, a total loss of feeling in your feet. This can lead to not noticing injuries!
- Ulcers: Slow-healing sores on the feet are a red flag and should never be ignored.
- Muscle Weakness: A feeling of weakness in the legs or feet can also occur.

- Daily Foot Inspections: Make it a habit to check your feet for any changes or abnormalities. Don't forget to look between your toes!
- Nail Care: Trim your toenails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails. If you're struggling with thick nails, consult a podiatrist.
- Proper Footwear: Ensure your shoes fit well and your socks aren't too tight. Consider orthopaedic shoes if you're prone to foot issues.
- Temperature Protection: Protect your feet from extreme temperatures. Insulated shoes in winter are a must!
- Blood Flow Maintenance: Keep active! Try foot-friendly exercises like swimming or walking and remember to elevate your feet when sitting.
- Daily Washing and Moisturising: Clean your feet with warm water, dry them thoroughly, and apply lotion (but avoid between the toes).
- Regular Check-Ups: Don’t skip your healthcare appointments. Have your feet checked regularly to catch any issues early.

- Non-healing cuts or sores
- Persistent pain, weakness, or tingling in your hands or feet
- Changes in digestion, urination, or sexual function
- Light-headedness or fainting spells.
- Diabetes-Related Neuropathy-Cleveland Clinic. Aug 28, 2024. [Internet] [cited March 08, 2025] Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21621-diabetic-neuropathy
- Diabetes-Related Foot Conditions-Cleveland Clinic. March 21, 2024. [Internet] [cited March 08, 2025] Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21510-diabetic-feet
- Diabetic neuropathy-Mayo Clinic.[Internet] [cited March 08, 2025] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetic-neuropathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20371580
- Your Feet and Diabetes-CDC. May 15, 2024.[Internet] [cited March 08, 2025] Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/diabetes-complications/diabetes-and-your-feet.html#:~:text=Nerve damage and poor blood,amputated (removed bY surgery).
- YourFeetandDiabetes-CDC.May15,2024.[Internet][citedMarch08,2025]Availableat:https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/diabetes-complications/diabetes-and-your feet.html#:~:text=Nerve%20damage%20and%20poor%20blood,amputated%20(removed%20by%20surgery).
- NIH-National Cancer Institute. Neuropathy. [Internet] [cited March 08, 2025] Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/neuropathy
- Diabetes and nerve damage-Medline Plus.[Internet] [cited March 08, 2025] Available at: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000693.htm
- Dermatonics. [Internet] [cited March 08, 2025] Available at:https://www.dermatonics.co.uk/pages/professionals
- Diabetes foot care. (n.d.). https://www.sgh.com.sg/patient-care/specialties
- Healthvision.in.Available from ://healthvision.in/wcontent/uploads/2020/10/diabetes-foot-e1603457060270.jpg
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