Living with diabetes? We get how challenging it can get to maintain blood sugar levels within a safe range. Diabetes needs careful monitoring of diet, exercise, and medication. But what gets overlooked almost all the time? Diabetes foot care.
For individuals with diabetes, proper foot care is crucial due to the complications that can arise.
High blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage and reduced blood flow in the feet, making them more susceptible to injuries and infections.
Let’s explore the importance of taking care of your feet when you have diabetes and provide simple yet effective tips to ensure the well-being of your feet.
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Diabetes Foot Care – Why is the Importance?
Diabetes foot care is of utmost importance because individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing foot problems.
It can cause nerve damage (neuropathy) and reduce blood flow to the feet (peripheral arterial disease).
As a result, people with diabetes may experience a loss of sensation in their feet, making it difficult to notice injuries, blisters, or cuts.
These minor issues can quickly escalate into serious complications, such as foot ulcers and infections. In severe cases, foot complications can even lead to the need for amputation.
By practicing proper foot care and regular monitoring, individuals with diabetes can significantly reduce the risk of foot-related complications and maintain overall foot health.
Doctor Recommendation: Dr. Muhammad Umer Sheikh is one of the leading Medical Specialists in Lahore. With experience spanning over 12 years, he can effectively treat all problems that come with diabetes.
The Must-to-Do Diabetes Foot Care Tips!
We have outlined some diabetes foot care tips that you should know about and add to your care routine:
Examine Your Feet Every Day for Wounds, Cracks, and Sores
Check your feet every day for any problems. It should also be your routine thing to do in diabetes foot care.
Take a good look at your feet, especially at the bottom, between your toes, and around your heels. If you notice any cuts, wounds, cracks, blisters, or sores, take care of them right away.
Wash the area gently with mild soap and water, then apply a clean bandage. Tell your doctor if you find redness or swelling or if a wound doesn’t seem to be healing.
By checking your feet daily, you can catch any issues early and prevent them from becoming severe.
Don’t Use Your Feet to Check If the Water is Hot Enough
Because diabetes can affect the feeling in your feet, it’s not a good idea to use them to test the water’s temperature.
If the water is too hot, you may not feel the burn right away, which can lead to burns or injuries. Instead, use your hands or a thermometer to check the water temperature.
This way, you can make sure it’s safe and comfortable for your feet.
Wear Diabetes-Friendly Socks and Shoes
Choosing the right socks and shoes is crucial for foot health.
Look for diabetes-friendly socks made from materials that wick away moisture. It helps keep your feet dry and reduces the risk of infections.
Avoid tight-fitting socks that can restrict blood flow.
When it comes to shoes, opt for well-fitting, supportive, and cushioned ones that protect your feet from injuries.
Diabetes-friendly shoes have extra space for your toes and a comfortable insole. These types of footwear help reduce pressure on your feet and lower the chance of developing sores or ulcers.
Never Go Barefoot, Whether Outside or Inside
Protect your feet at all times. Avoid walking barefoot, whether you’re at home or outside.
Walking without shoes or slippers increases the risk of cuts, scrapes, or infections that you may not feel right away due to reduced sensitivity.
Wear comfortable and supportive slippers or shoes indoors to safeguard your feet from accidental injuries.
Suggested Read: Insulin Resistance Symptoms and Treatment!
Always Keep Your Feet Dry
Moisture can lead to skin problems and infections. Make sure to keep your feet dry at all times.
After bathing or showering, dry your feet thoroughly, especially between your toes. Moisturize your feet with lotion to prevent dry skin, but avoid applying lotion between your toes, as it can trap moisture.
Additionally, change your socks if they become damp. Keeping your feet dry creates a less favorable environment for bacterial or fungal growth.
Go Easy on Your Feet with Low-Impact Exercises
Physical activity is essential, but you should choose exercises that are gentle on your feet.
Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling are great choices. These activities put less stress on your feet and reduce the risk of injuries.
If you have any foot problems or pain during exercise, stop and talk to your doctor. They can help you find activities that won’t harm your feet.
Quit Smoking – Get Blood Running Through Your Feet
Smoking is harmful to your blood vessels and can reduce blood flow to your feet. It can lead to foot problems and slow down the healing process if you get injured.
Quitting smoking may improve blood circulation, which helps your feet stay healthy and heal better if any injuries occur.
Control Your BP – Avoid Diabetic Neuropathy
High blood pressure can damage your nerves, a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. It can lead to loss of sensation in your feet, making it challenging to notice injuries.
To avoid diabetic neuropathy, try to keep your blood pressure under control.
You can do this by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, taking prescribed medications, and managing stress.
Suggested Read: Best Foods in Diabetic Diet to Control Diabetes!
See Your Diabetologist Regularly for Any Feet Problems!
Even if your feet seem fine, visit your diabetologist or a general physician regularly. They will check your feet for any issues, even those you might not have noticed.
Early detection of problems can prevent them from becoming severe and keep your feet healthy.
Don’t hesitate to talk to a qualified diabetologist if you have any concerns about your foot health or notice any changes in your feet.
