Dr. Ashutosh Shah explains 10 warning signs of diabetic foot, from numbness and slow-healing wounds to swelling and colour changes, and what to do.
Most diabetic foot problems give warning signs long before they become serious, but many of these signs are painless and easy to miss. In this video, Dr. Ashutosh Shah of Elegance Diabetic Foot & Ulcer Clinic (EDFC), Surat explains the warning signs of diabetic foot that you should never ignore.
10 Warning Signs of Diabetic Foot
- Numbness or loss of feeling: You cannot feel touch, heat or a small injury.
- Tingling, burning or pins and needles: Often a sign of nerve damage.
- A wound or blister that heals slowly: Any cut that does not improve in a few days.
- Thick calluses or corns: Especially with a dark or blood-stained spot inside.
- Dry, cracked skin: Cracks on the heels can let infection in.
- Changes in skin colour: Red, blue, pale or black areas on the foot or toes.
- Swelling or warmth: A swollen, hot foot may mean infection or Charcot foot.
- Cold feet or pain while walking: Signs of poor blood flow.
- Changes in foot shape: New bumps, clawed toes or a collapsing arch.
- Thick, discoloured or ingrown toenails: These can injure the skin and cause infection.
Why These Signs Matter
Diabetes can damage the nerves and blood vessels in the feet. Without normal feeling, a small problem can turn into an ulcer or infection before any pain is noticed. Catching these signs early makes treatment simpler and greatly lowers the risk of amputation.
What to Do
Check both feet every day, including the soles and between the toes. If you notice any of these signs, get your feet examined. Fever, spreading redness, a bad smell or black skin need medical care the same day.
Learn more about diabetic neuropathy, peripheral artery disease and diabetic foot screening.
quiz Frequently Asked Questions
This video is general education, not a diagnosis. If you have a diabetic foot wound, please have it assessed in person. Send a photo on WhatsApp or book a consultation.
