sense pain or light touch due to increased blood sugars over time, which can vary from patient to patient. Some diabetics can have diabetic neuropathy and be totally insensate and not even feel something as sharp as a knife entering the foot–Hence, the danger of pedicures with sharp tools such as metal exfoliators, sharp cuticle nippers.
Some may have diminished sensation and feel some pain, but very little. Neuropathy is the is the number one reason for amputation amongst diabetics. Because sensation can be diminished, water temperature is of concern. Burns can occur when a person lacks the ability to sense hot temperature temperatures.
Diabetics are also more prone to foot infections. When infected in the foot diabetic tend to attract different and multiple types of bacteria. Blood sugars can delay wound healing, affect circulation and lead to amputation in the worst case
Sharp instruments can also be of concern as well. It is recommended to push back cuticles but not to trim them with sharp instruments.
In the elderly similar concerns are present–such as thin skin and poor circulation.
In general, children should only have their toenails