Among the many complications of diabetes, diabetic foot can be described as a no-brainer. It is common for diabetics to develop serious problems such as ulcers in the feet first, but it is rarely heard that they start in the hands. Why is that?
First of all, our feet are physically and functionally weighted, and when we walk and stand, our feet are under much more pressure than our hands. Long-term stress can easily lead to damage to the blood vessels and nerves in the feet, especially in patients with diabetes who have poor blood sugar control.
Secondly, the feet are farther away from the heart and the blood circulation is relatively poor. For people with diabetes, high blood sugar can affect the elasticity and patency of blood vessels, making it easier for the feet to have a lack of blood supply. Insufficient blood supply, lack of nutrients and oxygen to tissues, and natural susceptibility to lesions.
In addition, there are relatively few sensory nerve endings in the feet, and neuropathy caused by diabetes may not be detected until later in the feet. When an injury to the foot has already occurred, the patient may not be detected and treated in time because of the lack of sensation, resulting in a gradual worsening of the problem.
In addition, when it comes to daily care, we usually pay less attention to the feet than to the hands. Hands are often moved and cleaned, and it is easy to find small wounds or problems and treat them in time. Feet are often wrapped in shoes and socks, which can be easily overlooked, and even minor wear and tear or trauma can lead to infections if not treated in time.
In summary, due to the differences in the special physiological structure, blood circulation characteristics, nerve sensation and daily care of the feet, diabetic complications are more likely to manifest in the feet, leading to the occurrence of diabetic foot. This also reminds the majority of diabetic patients to pay special attention to foot care and examination to prevent the appearance of diabetic foot.
I hope the above explanations can give you a deeper understanding of diabetic foot, if you have different insights or additions, welcome to communicate in the comment area.