Weak intrinsic muscles lead to claw and hammer toe deformities. These imbalances lead to altered weight distribution and foot pressures, causing abnormal pressure points, shoe wear, and skin breakdown. Deficient sweat production causes thick, dry skin and callus formation in areas of pressure.
Fissures develop and allow entry of microorganisms.
Ulcer and sinus tract formation begins. Neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease combine to place diabetic patients at a markedly increased risk to develop osteomyelitis. Copyright 1999 T. Learch , A. Gentili . All rights reserved.