Diabetes can often lead to itching sensations on the body, including the ankles. High blood sugar can cause dry skin, and those with diabetes are also more likely to have skin infections, peripheral neuropathy, and poor blood circulation, which can lead to further itchiness.

People with diabetes may develop tight, thick, waxy-looking skin on their skin, hands, and digits. This is due to circulatory problems. The symptoms often start on the hands but can spread to the arms and upper body. Less commonly, they can affect the knees, ankles, or elbows, and the skin may have an orange-peel appearance.