Diabetic foot problems are a common and serious complication for people with type 2 diabetes in Singapore. This article explains how to spot early signs, perform daily checks, and find local treatment so you can protect mobility and avoid limb loss.

TL;DR

• Diabetic foot involves ulcers, infections, and deformities caused by neuropathy and poor circulation.

• Do a daily foot check, wear diabetes-friendly footwear, and control blood sugar.

• Early multidisciplinary care can save limbs — Singapore programs like LEAPP and DEFINITE improved outcomes.

• Seek urgent care for swelling, spreading redness, or non-healing ulcers.

Symptoms and early signs of diabetic foot

Start with a clear summary sentence: early symptoms are often subtle but treatable. Diabetic foot shows as numbness, tingling, or burning from peripheral neuropathy. You may notice skin breaks, non-healing sores, or colour changes that signal poor circulation. Neuropathy quiets pain, so wounds often go unnoticed.

Neuropathy versus poor circulation

Quick summary: neuropathy causes numbness; peripheral arterial disease causes cold, pale feet. Neuropathy brings loss of sensation and muscle weakness. PAD causes slow healing, hair loss, and shiny skin. Both increase ulcer and infection risk and require different treatments.

Prevention and daily foot care in Singapore

Clear start: prevention reduces 80-90% of amputations when applied early. Daily checks catch problems early. Keep blood glucose within target and attend routine screenings. Use proper footwear and moisturise carefully to avoid cracks and blisters.

How to do daily foot checks

Summary sentence: a simple daily routine prevents many problems. Sit in good light and inspect soles with a mirror or help from family. Check between toes, under calluses, and around nails. If you find redness, drainage, or unusual smell, seek care within 24 to 48 hours.

• Look for colour changes, swelling, or open sores.

• Test sensation with a tuning fork or monofilament at clinic visits.

• Trim nails straight and avoid cutting calluses at home.

Treatments and local specialists

Begin with one clear sentence: treatment depends on cause and severity. Minor issues need wound care, debridement, and antibiotics. More advanced disease benefits from multidisciplinary teams including podiatrists, vascular surgeons, and endocrinologists. Early referral improves healing rates dramatically.

Where to get care in Singapore

Start locally: public hospitals and private clinics provide coordinated clinics. Singapore General Hospital has diabetes foot care services and screening programs for high-risk patients (https://www.sgh.com.sg). For metabolic causes, Pan Asia Surgical offers metabolic surgery that may help people with severe type 2 diabetes; learn more here: https://panasiasurg.com/news-articles/reverse-diabetes-type-ii-metabolic-surgery-for-diabetes-foot-in-singapore/.

Risks, emergencies, and when to act

One clear sentence: some signs need urgent hospital assessment. Seek immediate care if you see spreading redness, severe pain, fever, or pus. Rapid intervention prevents infection-related amputations. Keep emergency contacts and your diabetes card handy.

Emergency signs

Short list: increasing redness, foul smell, black tissue, or loss of blood flow. If toes turn blue or black, go to the nearest A&E. These signs can indicate gangrene or severe limb ischemia.

Singapore programs that reduce amputations

Start with the main point: coordinated programs cut amputation rates significantly. Singapore initiatives like LEAPP and DEFINITE provide rapid assessment, vascular intervention, and wound teams. Audits show these programs lowered minor and major amputation rates and improved limb salvage.

Practical tips and daily habits

Begin with a direct tip: small habits protect your feet every day. Control blood sugar, stop smoking, and exercise to improve circulation. Choose supportive shoes with wide toe boxes and soft insoles. Book podiatry checks every three months if you have neuropathy.

Summary

Final summary sentence: diabetic foot is preventable and treatable when found early. Watch for numbness, wounds, or colour changes and act quickly. Use daily checks, keep blood glucose controlled, and access Singapore’s multidisciplinary services. Early action keeps you walking.

Pan Asia Surgical supports patient education and referrals for specialist care within Singapore.

FAQs

How quickly can a foot ulcer become serious?

Ulcers can worsen within days if infected; seek care early.

Can better blood sugar reverse foot nerve damage?

Improved control can slow progression and reduce symptoms, but nerve damage may not fully reverse.

How often should I see a podiatrist?

High-risk patients should see a podiatrist every three months; low-risk patients can attend annual checks.

Are surgeries like angioplasty available in Singapore?

Yes, vascular interventions and stenting are widely available; timely referral improves outcomes.

Where can I learn more from official studies?

Clinical evidence and multidisciplinary guidelines are available on PMC.