Diabetic foot Many types of foot problems can develop in people with diabetes. It is possible for even ordinary problems to worsen and lead to serious complications. The most common cause of foot problems is nerve damage, also known as neuropathy. As a result, the foot may feel tingly, suffer from pain (burning or stinging), or become weak. In addition, it is possible to lose feeling in the foot, making it possible for you to injure it without realizing it. Changing shapes of your toes or feet may also cause problems due to poor blood flow.