The Importance of Diabetic Foot Care
Foot care is a universal need, but it is vital for people with diabetes. Diabetes makes individuals more prone to foot issues. For instance, 34% of people with diabetes are at risk of developing foot ulcers at some point in their lives.
One of the leading foot concerns for individuals living with diabetes is blood flow. Diabetes can result in blood supply issues, reducing blood flow to the feet. This can also mean healing injuries and infections within the feet can be more difficult. Continuous issues can pose a serious health risk and can even lead to amputation if not correctly cared for.
Let’s take a look at how to keep your feet happy and cared for as a diabetic:
- Don’t smoke. Smokers also tend to have more circulation issues, which, in combination with diabetic-related circulation issues, can be dangerous.
- Never walk barefoot. Always wear socks or comfortable shoes to lessen the risk of cuts or scrapes.
- Keep your feet warm and dry. Fungal infections are also a risk for diabetic patients. When moisturizing, avoid getting in between your toes. Antiperspirants may help keep your feet dry.
- Avoid wearing open-toed and narrow shoes. It’s essential to keep your feet as comfortable as possible while protecting them from injuries.
- Before wearing your shoes, make sure nothing is inside them. Pebbles or other small items might be hiding in them. Double-check your shoes before you put them on to ensure you won’t step on any foreign objects.
- Keep your toenails trimmed. Trimming your toenails is critical to decrease the risk of cutting yourself.
- Let your nail tech know. If you’re getting a pedicure, it’s important for them to know so they can properly take care of you.
- Get corns and calluses treated only by a podiatrist. Attempting to treat your corns and calluses can pose a greater risk of injury. It is much safer to have a professional treat them.
- Get checked yearly. Seeing the podiatrist on at least a yearly basis will help.
When should you seek medical advice?
Make sure to check your feet daily for cuts, scrapes, blisters, redness, or nail issues. If you notice any cuts or scrapes that do not heal or are experiencing redness, throbbing, swelling, or discoloration, that is a sign that you should visit the podiatrist. If you have any questions, please call (203) 723-7884 or visit https://familyfootcarect.com/contact-us/.
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Works Cited:
Department of Health & Human Services. Diabetes – foot care. Better Health Channel. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/diabetes-foot-care#bhc-content
Diabetes foot care guidelines. Diabetic Foot Care – Diabetic Foot Damage | Foot Health Facts – Foot Health Facts. (n.d.). https://www.foothealthfacts.org/conditions/diabetic-foot-care-guidelines
