When you have diabetes, it is vital to take proper care of your feet, and not doing so can lead to serious health issues, which includes the possibility of amputation as a result of poor circulation. It is essential to understand the connection between diabetes and foot care. Diabetes can severely damage your nerves and minimize blood flow to your fee, making an individual with diabetes much more vulnerable in developing foot troubles. The American Diabetes Association estimates that one in five people with diabetes who seek hospital care do so for difficulties with their feet. Nevertheless, most severe health problems associated with diabetes can be prevented by correctly caring for your feet.
Here are some helpful tips on how to care for your feet if you have diabetes:
Examine Feet Each Day
Check the tops and bottoms of your feet Look for blisters, scratches, cuts, or other sores Check for dry, cracked skin Check for ingrown toenails, calluses, or corns Take note of increased warmth, as well as any redness, tenderness, or swelling Do not cut corns or calluses. Consult with your doctor to safely smooth any sores Do not pop blisters. Instead, apply a bandage to the region and change shoes
Wash and Dry Feet Every day
Keep away from harsh, heavily-fragranced soaps Use lukewarm water with a soft washcloth or sponge Refrain from rubbing your skin to dry. Instead, pat-dry thoroughly with a soft towel To avoid fungal infections and prevent itching or cracking after washing, moisturize with lotion on your feet, avoiding the areas between your toes
Take Care of Toenails
After bathing, cut toenails when they are soft Cut toenails straight across, but maintain length to prevent ingrown toenails After trimming toenails, smooth with an emery board or nail file Keep away from cutting into the corners of toes
Protect Feet with Socks and Shoes
To avoid possible scratches and cuts, by no means go barefoot. Always protect your feet by wearing shoes or difficult-soled footwear Make sure your shoes fit properly Stay away from open-toed shoes and sandals. These shoes expose your feet and enhance risks for injuries and possible infections Inspect shoes prior to wearing them, taking note of any foreign objects or rough areas Break new shoes in gradually and stay away from wearing them for a lot more than one hour at a time Keep away from wearing high heels or shoes with pointed toes to prevent ulcer-causing pressure Wear clean, soft socks made of cotton, wool, or a cotton-wool blend Avoid socks with tight elastic bands since these constrict circulation Always keep your feet warm and dry, especially in colder weather conditions
General Foot Care Ideas
Report foot injuries and infections to your health care provider instantly, even if they are minor Refrain from crossing your legs Check water temperature with your elbow rather than your foot Never use a heating pad or hot water bottle on your feet Refrain from smoking as this restricts blood flow in your feet
When to Go to Your Physician
Diabetics should schedule an appointment at least once a year to have a thorough foot examination by a foot specialist. Additionally, consult your doctor if you expertise any of the following troubles with your feet:
Blackening of skin Sores or wounds Athlete’s foot Hammertoes Ingrown toenails Numbness or pain Calluses Redness Infection Bunions
Unique Care for High-Risk Conditions
If you have any high-risk conditions, there are specific issues you really should do to maintain your feet healthy.
Promptly treat minor skin conditions such as dry skin or athlete’s foot to maintain them from progressing If you have increased pressure on the soles of your feet or neuropathy, wear well-cushioned walking shoes or athletic shoes If you have lost any sensation in your feet, be positive to carefully inspect them frequently to identify any troubles early If you have calluses or corns, do not “self-treat.” Instead, consult a foot care specialist Get a complete foot examination each three to 6 months to stop further troubles
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