People with diabetes have a much higher risk for fracture. Skeletal deterioration is a complication of diabetes that is under-appreciated. People with diabetes have subtle differences in the microscopic architecture of the cortical bone, an increase in the volume of pores, which can weaken the bone increasing the chance for fracture. These microscopic changes are not picked up on the typical bone density tests; therefore, clinicians and patients need to be aware of the increased risk for fractures in patients with diabetes.

Diabetes raises the glucose levels in the blood which can damage the nerves in the feet and legs causing diabetic peripheral neuropathy. With diabetic peripheral neuropathy, patients can lose feeling in their legs and feet, becoming unaware of any cuts, scrapes, or wounds that may occur. In conjunction with poor circulation, which can slow the healing of any wounds, small cuts can quickly become serious infections. Therefore, it is vitally important that people with diabetes take extra care of their feet and maintain foot health.