Burning
The sensation that your feet are on fire is a common complaint of patients with diabetes and may be associated with the development of foot ulcers.

Tingling
A prick like thrill caused by cold or striking a nerve and is the result of diseases of the peripheral nervous system.

Numbness
A common complaint that is the result of a lack of sensation in the feet and is often accompanied by a pins and needles feeling.

Pain
The origins of foot pain may be rooted in many conditions like those listed on this page. Many painful foot disorders may be attributed to hereditary factors, years of strenuous activity, neuropathy or abuse like ill-fitting shoes.

Calluses
Thickened skin on the bottom of the feet often caused by poor fitting shoes.

Ingrown Nails
Soft tissue inflammation located at the very corners of the toenail is usually the result of improper nail clipping and becomes a site for infections. Seriously infected nails need to be removed by a doctor. Those with chronic conditions like diabetes must be especially careful and see a physician for any problem.

Corns
Painful growths of toughened skin that develop on the top or side of the foot. They often take the shape of a kernel of corn. Generally caused by excessive rubbing usually from poor fitting shoes. An infected corn should be seen by a doctor and may require removal.

Infections
Bacteria or germs that grow in soft tissue on the feet and if untreated can lead to ulcer, surgery and possibly amputation. Keep your feet clean and change socks or stockings daily.

Ulcers
Poorly healing sores that are painful, slow to heal, cause the feet to swell and often lead to amputation. Consult with your physician at any sign of ulceration.

Nail Fungus
A parasitic infection of the nail bed that thrives and grows in warm, moist and dark areas. New treatment methods and medications offer rewarding results.

Dry Skin
Drying and thinning of the skin is a common problem with diabetic feet and can lead to cracking, fissures, inflammation and infections. Inform your physician when these signs become apparent.

Hematoma
Hematoma or blood under the nail results from trauma. If not treated, this condition can be extremely painful. Your physician should determine that the bone under the nail is not fractured. Proper fitted shoes and inserts offer protection.

Blisters
Usually found on the heel of the foot, blisters are pockets of liquid under the skin caused by continual rubbing against improperly fitting shoes. If untreated, blisters can lead to serious complications for the diabetic patient.

Heel Spurs
A bony growth that extends forward from under the heel and pulls the plantar tissue causing pain inflammation. Tight shoes, minor injuries, circulation problems and diabetes can contribute to this problem. A cushioned shoe insert is often recommended. In severe cases heel spurs may need to be surgically removed.

Charcot Foot
When neuropathy is present, the bones in the foot become weakened and can fracture easily. Pain goes unnoticed and the person continues to walk on it leading to severe deformities.

Bunions
A bunion forms when your big toe angles toward the second toe. Often, the spot where your big joins the rest of the foot becomes red and callused. This area may also stick out and become hard. Bunions can form on both feet and are often caused by wearing high-heeled shoes with narrow toes. Felt or foam padding may help protect the bunion from irritation. Severe pain or deformity may lead to surgery to realign the toes.

Hammertoes
A hammertoe is a toe that is bent from weakened muscles that make the tendons shorter, causing the toes to curl. Often caused by shoes that are too short, hammertoes can cause walking problems leading to blisters, calluses and sores. Corrective footwear can help in treating them, though severe cases may require corrective surgery.