Diabetic neuropathy in the feet
Diabetes can damage the nerves that carry feeling from the feet. Symptoms vary, and some people notice no symptoms until protective sensation has already reduced.
Common symptoms
- Numbness or loss of feeling in the toes or soles.
- Tingling, pins and needles, burning feet or electric-shock pain.
- Extreme sensitivity to touch, including discomfort from socks or bedclothes.
- Poor balance or uncertainty about where the feet are placed.
Why reduced sensation matters
A blister, tight shoe, hot surface or small cut may not hurt when protective sensation is reduced. Continuing to walk on an unnoticed injury can increase pressure and delay treatment, raising the risk of an ulcer or infection.
What daily checks can and cannot do
Visual inspection and matching left-right temperature records can reveal changes that pain no longer signals. They cannot diagnose neuropathy, poor circulation, infection or Charcot foot, and they do not replace a professional sensation and circulation check.
Get help for a change
Arrange a review if numbness, tingling or burning is new or worsening. Contact your clinician promptly for a blister, wound, new hot spot, redness, swelling or discharge. Seek urgent care for fever, spreading redness, black tissue or a suddenly hot and swollen foot.