What Is Diabetic Foot? Symptoms, Stages and Treatment
Everything you need to know about diabetic foot: causes, symptoms, stages and modern treatment methods.
What Is Diabetic Foot?
Diabetic foot is a serious complication resulting from damage caused by prolonged high blood sugar to the nerves (neuropathy) and vessels (circulatory disorder) in the feet, potentially progressing with wounds, infection and tissue loss.
Why Does It Occur?
- Neuropathy: Reduced sensation due to nerve damage; wounds go unnoticed.
- Circulatory disorder: Vessel blockage impairs tissue nutrition and healing.
- Infection: Open wounds become easily infected and can deepen rapidly.
Symptoms
- Numbness, tingling or burning in the foot
- Non-healing wounds, cracks or blisters
- Color change, swelling or increased warmth
- Foul-smelling discharge
Stages (Wagner Classification)
| Stage | Definition |
|---|---|
| 0 | At-risk foot, no ulcer |
| 1 | Superficial ulcer |
| 2 | Deep ulcer reaching tendon/capsule |
| 3 | Abscess or osteomyelitis (bone infection) |
| 4 | Localized gangrene |
| 5 | Gangrene of the entire foot |
Treatment Methods
Treatment is planned individually and usually includes: blood sugar control, infection management, debridement and wound care, improving circulation (revascularization), offloading and hyperbaric oxygen therapy in selected patients.
The most critical factor in diabetic foot is time. Early presentation often prevents amputation.
If you suspect diabetic foot, see a specialist without delay. You can share your situation with us to request a free preliminary assessment and second opinion.
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