Signs of Diabetes in Feet and Legs

Diabetes can show up in the feet and legs long before many adults realize they even have it. High blood sugar quietly damages nerves and blood vessels over time, often starting at the edges of the body — your toes, feet, and lower legs.

Ignoring foot and leg changes can lead to serious infections, ulcers, or even amputations if left unchecked. That’s why spotting early signs and acting fast can protect your mobility and your independence for years to come. Here’s what your feet and legs might be telling you about diabetes — and why paying attention matters.

1. Tingling or Pins-and-Needles Feeling

One of the first signs is tingling in your toes or feet. Some people describe it as pins and needles, prickling, or tiny electric shocks that come and go. This happens because high blood sugar damages the small nerves in your extremities — a problem known as peripheral neuropathy. It usually starts in the toes and spreads upward if blood sugar stays uncontrolled.

2. Numbness or Loss of Sensation

What begins as tingling can turn into numbness. Many adults with diabetes notice they can’t feel their feet as well as they used to. You might step on something sharp and not feel it, or notice that your feet feel “dead” or strangely warm at times. Loss of sensation means you might miss injuries that can get infected later.

3. Burning or Shooting Pains

Diabetic nerve damage doesn’t always feel numb — sometimes it burns. Sharp, stabbing pains or a constant burning feeling in the feet and lower legs are common signs of diabetic neuropathy. Pain can be worse at night, making it hard to sleep or get comfortable.

4. Cuts and Sores That Heal Slowly

Diabetes affects circulation, which means even small cuts or blisters can take longer to heal. A tiny blister from a shoe or a scratch from walking barefoot can turn into a stubborn wound that lingers for weeks. If you see sores that don’t improve or keep getting worse, it’s time to see a doctor.

5. Ulcers or Open Wounds

A foot ulcer is an open sore that doesn’t heal easily. They often start as small blisters or calluses but break open due to poor circulation and nerve damage. These wounds can get infected quickly and may not cause pain because of numbness — which makes them even more dangerous if unnoticed.

6. Changes in Skin Color

Pay attention to color changes. Redness, purple patches, or dark spots can signal poor circulation or infection. If your feet or toes turn pale or blue when you’re resting, that may mean blood flow is restricted. Blackened skin is a serious emergency that may mean tissue death (gangrene) — which needs urgent treatment.

7. Swelling in Feet or Legs

Mild swelling now and then can happen for many reasons. But constant swelling in your feet, ankles, or lower legs could mean poor circulation or an infection. Swelling combined with pain, warmth, or redness might mean there’s an underlying problem that needs quick medical care.

8. Changes in Skin Temperature

Healthy feet should feel warm but not overly hot or cold. One foot feeling cooler or hotter than the other can be an early sign of circulation trouble. Sudden warmth in a certain spot could point to infection or inflammation under the skin.

9. Ingrown Toenails or Fungal Infections

People with diabetes are more prone to fungal nail infections, thick or yellow toenails, and ingrown nails. Because of reduced feeling, you might not notice these early — and they can lead to skin breaks or sores. Proper nail care is vital to prevent tiny problems from turning into bigger ones.

10. Dry, Cracked Skin

High blood sugar can damage sweat glands that keep your feet moist. This leads to dry, cracked heels or flaky skin — which can break open and invite infection. Moisturizing your feet daily can help prevent cracks but avoid putting lotion between the toes where moisture can trap bacteria.

11. Foot Deformities and Shape Changes

Long-term nerve damage and muscle weakness can change the shape of your feet. Hammertoes, bunions, or collapsed arches might develop, changing how you walk. These changes can cause pressure points that lead to blisters or ulcers if not addressed.

12. Loss of Hair on Feet and Toes

Poor circulation may slow hair growth on your feet, toes, and lower legs. If you notice less hair than usual — combined with other signs — it might be time to check your sugar levels and circulation.

13. Foot Odor and Infections

Unusual foot odor can point to bacterial or fungal infections, which thrive in warm, moist places. Minor infections can turn serious for people with diabetes if left untreated. Check feet daily, especially between toes, for redness, peeling skin, or unusual smell.

14. Trouble Walking or Balance Problems

Numbness, nerve pain, or weakness in your feet and legs can affect balance. Some people feel unsteady on their feet or drag one foot slightly when walking. Balance trouble can raise your risk of falls, so don’t shrug it off.

What to Do if You Notice These Signs

If you spot any of these foot or leg changes, check your blood sugar regularly. Keep feet clean, dry, and protected. Avoid walking barefoot, and wear properly fitted shoes. Schedule regular foot checks with your doctor or a podiatrist. If you notice cuts, sores, or infections that don’t heal, get medical help quickly. Early treatment can prevent serious problems and help you keep your feet healthy for life.

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