Diabetic Athletes Face More Foot Injuries Than
Non-Diabetic Athletes

Foot and ankle injuries are commonplace among all athletes, weekend warriors and high-performance athletes alike, but diabetic athletes are at a significantly greater risk to sustain stress fractures, sprains and other foot and ankle injuries than nondiabetic athletes, according to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS).

According to ACFAS spokesperson John M. Giurini, DPM, FACFAS, a Boston foot and ankle surgeon, a key reason diabetic athletes are more susceptible to foot injuries is that many diabetics have neuropathy, the diminished sensation from nerve damage in the foot.

"Many diabetic athletes are simply not aware that they’ve been injured or have pain," said Giurini. "They will often continue their normal routine while injured and cause more damage."

Giurini points out that in addition to neuropathy, diabetic athletes have the other foot problems associated with diabetes. Diabetic foot problems can include poor circulation coupled with a compromised immune system that increases the risk of infection and the restricted delivery of oxygen and other nutrients to the affected area.

"This does not mean that diabetic athletes must stay away from sports and exercise," says Giurini. "Exercise is important and especially beneficial to the diabetic. The point is that diabetic athletes must take special care of their feet."

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Page last updated: August 22, 2006