Diabetes is a condition with many possible adverse effects, including major foot problems. As many as 70% of diabetics suffer from nerve damage, or neuropathy, with the feet being one of the most affected areas. Once the nerves in the foot are not working normally, patients might sustain unnoticed cuts or injuries. At Advanced Foot, Ankle, & Wound Specialists, PA, the podiatrists emphasize the need for diabetic patients to learn the measures they could adopt to improve their foot care and avoid complications. Here are five key tips the diabetic foot Las Olas specialists suggest patients use to care for their feet, even while undergoing diabetes care.
1) Control Your Blood Glucose Levels
While it might not appear directly connected to your feet, partnering with your diabetes medical care team to properly manage and control blood sugar levels will help maintain the health of your feet. Do not disregard your blood sugar management and control measures if you would like to safeguard your feet.
2) Always Examine Your Feet Everyday
Diabetic neuropathy might cause foot injuries that you might not feel because of dysfunctional nerves. For this reason, inspect your feet every day for any indications of injury. If you observe cuts, bleeding, blisters, bruises, inflammation, or red patches, have these regions evaluated by your podiatrist. Moreover, do not overlook the soles of your feet. If necessary, use a mirror to inspect them.
3) Wear Appropriate Footwear
Diabetic neuropathy patients should never walk barefoot. Walking barefoot raises the likelihood of foot injury, and if you have impaired nerve function, you might not even realize you have stepped on anything hazardous. Additionally, it can get fairly cold sometimes, especially during winter; thus, wearing appropriate footwear can protect your feet from the cold. Wear socks and shoes all the time in such conditions.
Furthermore, put on house slippers to protect your feet while at home. Before wearing shoes, check that there are no sharp objects inside that could harm your feet.
4) Pay Care To Foot Hygiene
Even if you do not take a daily shower, you should clean your feet daily. Unclean, wounded feet are more susceptible to infection; thus, hygiene is crucial. After washing, extensively dry your feet, including between the toes. Gently apply lotion to the bottoms and tops of your feet, but avoid applying in the spaces between your toes.
5) Focus On Blood Flow
If diabetes has weakened your nerves, you might not even notice when your feet ‘go asleep.’ Insufficient blood supply to the foot may exacerbate nerve injury. To maintain blood flow to the feet, move your ankles and toes frequently throughout the day.
While seated, support your feet with something. Avoid the urge to sit cross-legged for extended periods, as this position might restrict blood circulation to the feet.
Diabetes increases the likelihood of developing foot issues that could lead to infections or amputation. Proper foot care could lessen the likelihood of developing these complications. Besides the foot care tips highlighted above, you should always see a foot specialist every year and arrange an appointment immediately if you experience a foot issue. At Advanced Foot, Ankle, & Wound Specialists, PA, your diabetic foot care specialist will provide you with an expert diagnosis and treatment of your foot concerns. Schedule a consultation today through mobile or request online.