Diabetes is a disease which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar and starches into energy needed for daily life. The loss of blood flow and nerve damage are two common symptoms of diabetes. Decreased blood flow can make feet less able to fight infection and nerve damage make the feet less able to fight infection. Foot related problems include blisters, calluses, ulcers, infection, deformity and in some cases amputation. People with diabetes are at greater risk for foot problems, studies show that comprehensive foot care can reduce and even prevent foot complications. Proper footwear is essential to good foot health.