Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, is urging people living with diabetes not to ignore tingling, burning, pain, or numbness in their feet, as these early warning signs could indicate diabetic neuropathy, a serious condition that can lead to ulcers, infections and, in severe cases, amputation.
Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by diabetes. Over time, high blood sugar can damage the nerves and the small blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients to them. The condition usually develops gradually and is more likely in people who have lived with diabetes for many years or whose blood sugar is frequently above their recommended range.
The most common type is peripheral neuropathy, which generally affects the feet and legs first before potentially spreading to the hands and arms. Because the damage develops slowly, people often do not realise that anything is wrong until their symptoms become painful or they discover an injury on their foot.
Tingling and Pins and Needles
An early warning sign may be tingling, prickling, or a “pins and needles” feeling in the toes or soles of the feet. The sensation may come and go at first and can be more noticeable when sitting still or trying to sleep.
Some people describe it as insects crawling across the skin or small electric shocks moving through the feet. Regular tingling in both feet should be discussed with a healthcare professional, especially by anyone living with diabetes.
Burning or Shooting Pain
Nerve pain can feel different from an ordinary ache. It may feel burning, stabbing, sharp, or electric. Symptoms are often worse at night and can make it difficult to sleep.
In some cases, the feet become so sensitive that the light touch of a sock, shoe, or bedsheet causes pain. This happens when damaged nerves send incorrect or exaggerated pain signals to the brain.
Numbness Can Be More Dangerous Than Pain
Pain encourages a person to check what is wrong. Numbness can hide a problem.
Someone who has lost feeling in their feet may not notice a blister, cut, burn, thorn, stone inside a shoe, or pressure from tight shoes. They may continue walking on the injury, causing it to become deeper or infected.
Diabetes can also reduce blood flow to the feet, making wounds slower to heal. A small injury can therefore develop into a diabetic foot ulcer. If an infection spreads or tissue becomes badly damaged, surgery or amputation may be required.
Having no foot pain does not always mean the feet are healthy. A loss of pain or temperature sensation can itself be a warning sign of nerve damage.
Reduced Ability to Feel Heat and Cold
People with neuropathy may struggle to judge whether bathwater, a heater, or a hot-water bottle is too hot. This increases the risk of burns.
Bathwater should be tested using an elbow or another part of the body that has normal sensation. People with reduced feeling should avoid placing their feet directly against heaters and should never use very hot water to warm cold feet.
Walking barefoot should also be avoided, even inside the home. Sharp objects, hot paving, and rough ground can injure the skin without the person noticing.
Weakness and Poor Balance
Neuropathy may affect the nerves that control muscles and movement. This can cause weakness in the feet or legs, difficulty lifting the front of the foot, frequent stumbling, or an unsteady walk.
Some people feel as though they are walking on cotton wool, while others cannot clearly sense where their feet are positioned. These changes can increase the risk of falls and fractures.
Check Your Feet Every Day
People living with diabetes should inspect the tops, soles, and sides of their feet every day. A mirror can help them see underneath their feet, or a family member can assist.
Look for:
- Cuts, blisters, or sores.
- Redness, swelling, or warmth.
- Cracked or very dry skin.
- Changes in skin colour.
- Ingrown or thickened toenails.
- Corns, calluses, or areas of pressure.
- Fluid, pus, or an unpleasant smell.
- Wounds that are not healing.
Check the inside of shoes for stones or sharp objects before putting them on and make sure they fit comfortably without rubbing. Toenails should be cut straight across. Avoid cutting off corns and calluses at home, as this can damage the skin and cause infection.
When to Seek Medical Help
Tingling, burning, numbness, weakness, or ongoing foot pain should never be ignored. Seek medical advice as soon as these symptoms develop. An open wound, spreading redness, pus, blackened skin, fever, or a foot that suddenly becomes hot, swollen, or misshapen all need urgent medical attention.
Keeping blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol under control can help protect the nerves and blood vessels. Regular diabetes check-ups should also include a foot examination to detect reduced sensation, poor circulation, and skin problems before they become serious.
Conclusion
Although diabetic neuropathy cannot always be reversed, early diagnosis, good diabetes management, appropriate treatment, and daily foot care can slow its progression and help prevent serious complications.
Affinity Health supports eligible members through its Diabetes Management Programme, giving them access to clinically trained case managers who help monitor treatment compliance, answer health-related questions, and provide ongoing clinical and emotional support. Members also benefit from 24/7 telehealth GP consultations and managed visits to a Medical Society, making it easier to access professional care and better manage diabetes.
The key message is simple: never ignore changes in your feet. Recognising the early warning signs of diabetic neuropathy and seeking help promptly can help protect your health, mobility, and quality of life.
About Affinity Health
Affinity Health is South Africa’s leading health cover provider, offering you a range of options at affordable rates, including access to the widest national provider network. We understand the importance of having medical insurance that meets your needs, budget, and lifestyle. Our healthcare products are designed to protect you and your family when it matters the most. We strive to give our members peace of mind and the highest standard of service. For more information, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X.
