Foot care and diabetes
fgarati
January 3, 2023
As someone living with diabetes, it’s essential to prioritise footcare to prevent serious complications such as nerve damage, kidney disease, and eye problems. High blood sugar levels can damage the nerves and blood vessels in the feet, leading to a loss of feeling and circulation. This can make it difficult to detect injuries and infections, which can result in serious complications if left untreated. By taking the necessary steps to protect your feet and manage any issues that arise, you can maintain your overall health and well-being. In this blog, we will discuss 10 tips for foot care when living with diabetes.
Table of contents: Foot care and diabetes
Keep your blood sugar levels in check: As a person with diabetes, it’s crucial to manage your blood sugar levels to prevent complications. This can be achieved through a combination of medication, diet, and physical activity. Make sure to regularly monitor your blood sugar levels and talk to your healthcare provider about any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
Check your feet daily: To prevent foot injuries, it’s essential to regularly inspect your feet for any cuts, blisters, or sores. Use a mirror or ask someone else to help you check the bottoms of your feet if you can’t see them easily. Don’t forget to check between your toes as well. If you notice any changes in your feet, such as redness, swelling, or changes in temperature, contact your healthcare provider.
Keep your feet clean and dry: Washing your feet every day with warm water and a mild soap can help prevent foot injuries and infections. Make sure to dry your feet thoroughly, especially between your toes. Avoid soaking your feet, as this can lead to dry, cracked skin. If you have poor circulation or neuropathy, you may need to ask someone to help you wash and dry your feet to ensure they are thoroughly cleaned.
Trim your toenails carefully: Properly trimming your toenails can help prevent ingrown toenails and other foot injuries. Use a toenail clipper or scissor specifically designed for toenails, and trim your toenails straight across. Avoid rounding the corners of your toenails, as this can lead to ingrown toenails. If you have difficulty trimming your toenails, ask your healthcare provider or a podiatrist for help.
Wear comfortable, properly fitting shoes: Shoes that fit poorly can cause blisters, calluses, and other foot injuries. Make sure to wear shoes that fit well and provide adequate support. Avoid wearing high heels or shoes with pointed toes, as these can put unnecessary pressure on your feet. Choose shoes with a wide toe box to give your toes plenty of room to move.
Wear socks that fit properly: Socks that are too tight or too loose can cause problems for your feet. Choose socks that fit well and provide cushioning to help protect your feet. Avoid socks with tight bands around the tops, as these can restrict circulation. If you have poor circulation, you may want to choose socks made from materials that help keep your feet dry, such as moisture-wicking fabrics.
Use lotion to keep your feet moisturised: Dry, cracked skin on your feet can be painful and make you more prone to foot injuries. Use a lotion specifically designed for feet to keep your skin moisturized and healthy. Avoid using lotion between your toes, as this can lead to fungal infections.
Protect your feet from hot and cold temperatures: It’s important to protect your feet from extreme temperatures to prevent injury. Avoid walking barefoot, especially on hot surfaces such as sand or asphalt. Wear shoes that provide insulation in cold weather to keep your feet warm. If you have poor circulation, your feet may be more sensitive to temperature changes, so take extra care to protect them.
Don’t smoke: Smoking can reduce blood flow to your feet and increase your risk of foot problems. If you have diabetes and smoke, it’s important to quit to protect your overall health and the health of your feet. Talk to your healthcare provider about resources to help you quit smoking.
Conclusion
Foot care is an essential part of living with diabetes. By following these tips and working with your healthcare team, you can take control of your foot health and reduce the risk of complications. Remember to check your feet daily, keep them clean and dry, wear comfortable, properly fitting shoes, and protect your feet from extreme temperatures. With proper care, you can keep your feet healthy and maintain your overall health and well-being.
References
American Diabetes Association. (2022). Foot care. Retrieved from https://www.diabetes.org/resources/healthy-living/foot-care
Mayo Clinic. (2021). Diabetes and foot care. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes-and-foot-care/art-20044110
Nemours Foundation. (2022). Diabetes: Foot care tips. Retrieved from https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/diabetes-foot.html
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2021). Foot care for people with diabetes. Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabe care-people-diabetes
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Foot care for people with diabetes. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/managing/foot-care.html
Diabetes UK. (2021). Foot care. Retrieved from https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/enjoy-food/eating-with-diabetes/foot-care
NHS. (2020). Foot care for people with diabetes. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/foot-care-for-people-with-diabetes/
World Health Organization. (2020). Diabetes and foot care. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240006169tes/overview/preventing-problems/foot
