Diabetes and Foot Care: Why Protecting Your Feet Is Critical:

Suspense crime, Digital Desk : Diabetes has repercussions on nearly all internal organs, but the feet, in particular, are at a high risk. The nerves may be damaged from high blood sugar levels leading to pain, tingling, or numbness in a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. This can make one forget about certain injuries that may turn into infectious cuts or blisters.

The reduced blood flow is an additional injury for slow helping wounds. Diabetic foot ulcers that progress to untreated osteomyelitis can often result in severe cases of gangrene that necessitates amputation. Other people suffer from debilitating deformities of the foot like nerve damage or the rare Charcot’s foot that weakens movement.

Routine Diabetes Foot Care

The preemptive measures are recommended by the NIDDK in preventing complication foot care should be included in diabetes management plans. Work is to solely be done:

1. Wash and dry the feet

Hot water, along with a very mild soap, can be used for cleaning the feet on a daily basis.

You should be gentle while drying off the feet, more so, in between the toes.

Feet are not supposed to be submerged in water and soaking as this can cause the skin to dry out.

2. Moisturizing super carefully

A thin coating of gauze is suitable for the tops and bottoms of the feet, while vaseline or a non scented lotion can do the trick.

The application of lotion between the toes may promote fungal growth. Refrain from using lotion between the toes.

3. Safely Trim Toenails

File down rough edges after cutting nails straight across.

Filing of corners of the nails must not be done. This is called trimming.

If the nails are excessively thick, curved, or difficult to handle, consult a podiatrist.

4. Choice of Footwear and Socks

Wear socks and shoes that are padded and properly fitting, even when indoors.

Steer clear of tight shoes, those with pointed tips, or high heels.

To limit the risk of injury, refrain from going barefoot.

5. Improving Circulation

When sitting, raise your feet and move your toes frequently.

Walking, swimming, stretching and yoga are complimentary to maintain physical activity.

Avoid crossing your legs for long periods.

Consider quitting smoking to improve healing and blood flow, if currently a smoker.

6. Schedule regular foot check ups

Request your doctor to check your feet during each visit.

Get comprehensive examinations every year, or as suggested, if you have ulcers, deformities or nerve damage.

7. Seek immediate medical attention

Taking symptoms such as redness, swelling, wounds, or odd smells to your health care provider early is important in order to prevent complications like hospitalization or amputation.