Diabetes itself isn't the real fear; it's the complications! Among them, diabetic foot is one of the severe complications that many people with diabetes dread. If you've recently been experiencing numbness or a cold sensation in your feet, don't take it lightly!

Why should you be especially vigilant about numb or cold feet?

Diabetic neuropathy (diabetic peripheral neuropathy) and vascular lesions are the main causes of numbness and coldness in the feet. Both serve as a "prelude" to diabetic foot!

Neuropathy: Long-term poor blood sugar control can damage nerves, leading to reduced sensation—you may not feel pain, temperature changes, or touch.

Vascular Lesions: High blood sugar damages blood vessels, resulting in insufficient blood supply to the lower limbs, causing cold and pale feet.

7 Essential Tests to Check

1️⃣ Nerve Function Tests

10g Monofilament Test: A special nylon filament is lightly touched to multiple areas of the foot to test for normal sensation.

Tuning Fork Vibration Test: Assesses the ability to perceive vibrations.

Ankle Reflex Test: Examines nerve reflex function

Temperature sensation test: Assesses the ability to perceive hot and cold

2️⃣ Vascular Condition Assessment

Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI): Compares blood pressure at the ankle and upper arm to assess blood flow in the lower limbs

Lower limb arterial color Doppler ultrasound: Provides a direct visualization of whether there is narrowing or blockage in the blood vessels

Transcutaneous Oxygen Pressure Measurement: Assessing Tissue Oxygen Supply

3️⃣ Foot Structure Examination

Foot Pressure Measurement: Evaluate plantar pressure distribution and identify abnormal high-pressure areas

4️⃣ Skin Condition Assessment

The doctor will carefully examine your feet for:

Dryness and cracks

Calluses

Ulcer or Wound

Color Change

Fungal Infection

5️⃣ Blood Sugar Control Evaluation

Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c): Reflects average blood glucose levels over the past 2–3 months

Fasting and postprandial blood glucose: Assess daily blood glucose fluctuations

6️⃣ Complication screening

Urine microalbumin: A sensitive indicator for early diabetic nephropathy

Fundus examination: Diabetic retinopathy often coexists with foot complications

7️⃣ Infection marker tests

If a wound or ulcer is already present, the following should be checked:

Complete blood count

C-reactive protein (CRP)

ESR

Bacterial Culture of Secretions

Daily Protection, Stay Away from Foot Disease Risks

Daily Essentials:

Thorough foot inspection: Use a mirror daily to examine the soles and between toes for minor wounds.

Proper foot washing: Use warm water (not exceeding 37℃) for no more than 10 minutes.

Keep feet dry: Especially between the toes

Proper Moisturization: Apply moisturizer after washing feet, but avoid between toes

Select Appropriate Footwear and Socks: Loose, breathable, seamless; socks should not have tight cuffs

Absolutely Forbidden:

❌ Walking barefoot, even indoors

❌ Using hot water bottles or electric blankets to warm feet

❌ Self-trimming of corns or calluses

❌ Walking for extended periods in new shoes

Important Reminder

If any of the following symptoms are detected, seek medical attention immediately:

Wounds, blisters, or ulcers appear on the feet

Sudden swelling of the foot

Localized redness and warmth

Sudden intensification of pain

Darkening or blackening of the foot

Although diabetic foot is frightening, it is preventable and manageable! The key lies in early detection and intervention. Conduct a comprehensive foot examination at least once a year and strictly control blood sugar levels on a daily basis. These measures can significantly reduce the risk of developing foot complications.

✨Caring for your feet means caring for your healthy future! Starting today, give your feet a little more attention!

Friendly Reminder: This article is for reference only. Please consult a professional doctor for specific examination items and treatment plans to develop a personalized management plan based on individual circumstances.