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Diabetes Foot Care

Diabetes can cause major foot problems. The risk of such changes occurring can be reduced by controlling the blood sugar levels and following the foot care. The changes in feet can take place whether patients are dependent on insulin, tablet or diet control.

If you have diabetes, then taking care of your foot is very essential. If you do not look after your feet then you run the risk of developing sores or infections. To lessen your risk of infection or amputation you need to incorporate the following seven foot care tips:

• Check your feet on a daily basis, particularly if you have low sensitivity or no sensation in your feet. Sores, cuts and grazes could go unobserved and you could develop problems leading to amputations.
• Always wear you shoes/slippers whenever you go out. Do not go around barefoot even indoors. It is easy to step on something or bang your toes and cut yourself. Protect your feet with socks/stockings.
• You can buy diabetic socks. As these are seamless on the bottom part and thicker they add a little more padding. The top part is more like an open weave that will stay up but does not cut the circulation as many regular socks do.
• Be cautious if you have corns or calluses. Confirm with your doctor or podiatrist the best way to care for them.
• Wash your feet daily in lukewarm water. In addition, do not soak your feet (even if you have been standing all day) because it could dry your skin and form cracks or sores.
• Always dry feet well by rubbing softly with a soft towel and do not forget in between your toes.
• Take extra care to dry your feet completely, particularly between your toes. These are natural moisture places. Leaving them moist or wet could create all sorts of problems.
• Exercise your legs and feet on a regular basis. Even when sitting you can spin your ankles; wiggle your toes or move your legs up and down. All these enhance blood circulation and help to reduce the risk of foot problems.
• Get your feet professionally examined at least once a year for sensitivity and signs of any problems. You can frequently arrange this when you have your annual check up for your AC1 levels (blood glucose levels over a 3-month period) blood pressure and cholesterol.

Take constant care of your feet. If you are unable to bend when trimming nails or checking for sores, get help from a relative or professional; Doctor, nurse or podiatrist. Following these simple actions will help you reduce the risk of painful problems.