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Treating Diabetic Foot Problems

Foot problems from diabetes are treated by keeping blood sugar levels in your target range. Other types of treatment include medicine, special shoes, and surgery.

Treatment for foot ulcers includes keeping weight off your injured foot. A cast or special boot, shoe inserts, crutches, a wheelchair, or bed rest may be used. Foot infections are treated with antibiotics.

Sometimes an ulcer or infection becomes severe, and the tissue in the foot dies (gangrene). If this happens, toes, part or all of the foot, and sometimes part of the leg may be removed (amputated).

Bone and joint deformities can develop on the feet, such as hammer, claw, and mallet toes or Charcot foot. Surgery may be needed to remove bone that is causing these problems.

Check your feet regularly for small injuries. Tell your doctor right away about calluses, blisters, cracked or peeling skin, and athlete's foot. And get regular foot exams.

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Current as of: July 7, 2025

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

© 2024-2026 Ignite Healthwise, LLC.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

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