|
|
|
|
|
Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects 20.8 million people or a total of 7 percent of the population. When a person has diabetes, the body either can not produce its own insulin (Type 1) or can not effectively use the insulin it is able to produce (Type 2). This causes higher glucose levels in the blood leading to long-term damage in many areas of the body. One problem area for people with diabetes is their feet. People with diabetes are more likely to have problems with their feet and have them more frequently than people who are not diabetic. If you are one of the millions of Americans that have diabetes, daily foot care is a mandatory part of your self care routine.
Why am I at such a higher risk of developing problems with my feet?
High blood glucose levels can lead to neuropathy or nerve damage in the feet and cause a loss of the sensation of pain, heat and cold. This can lead to sores, broken bones and sprains that go unnoticed due to a lack of pain sensation. These are typically slow healing and can at times even lead to amputation of the toes or feet. Many diabetics are also overweight; this also contributes to the problem of excess pressure on the feet and an increase risk of foot injury including pressure sores and ulcers. Foot problems and infection occur more often in diabetics whose blood glucose levels are out of control.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
How can I reduce the chance of diabetic related foot problems?
Get into the habit of checking and caring for your feet on a daily basis. Every day you should wash your feet in lukewarm water with a mild non-drying soap. Be careful to dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes. Use a good moisturizing lotion (one not containing alcohol) made for people with diabetes if your feet are dry. Avoid getting lotion between the toes where bacteria can cause infection and fungus. Check closely for blisters or cuts and notify your physician immediately if any signs of redness or swelling are present with them.
Avoid poor fitting shoes as they can cause blisters and calluses. Be sure that your shoes fit well in length and width and do not force your toes together in an uncomfortable position. Natural fiber socks such as wool and cotton are best for absorbing moisture and keeping the feet dry. Calluses cause an increase in pressure on the foot and can lead to infection and ulcers. Do not treat corns and calluses on your own. See a podiatrist who specializes in the care of diabetic feet to care for these types of problems. Never go barefoot, even in your own home! Always wear shoes to help support and protect your feet.
Exercise! Walking and low impact aerobics help improve circulation in the feet and aid in healing. Exercise also helps with weight loss which in turn helps to relieve excess pressure
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
on the feet.
Never forget, as a diabetic, your feet need extra special care and attention. They tend to be abused more than any other part of the body as we stand, run, and walk on a daily basis. For more information on good foot care practices and how to prevent problems in the future go to www.diabetes.org/diabetes-research/summaries/footcare.jsp
|
|
|
|
|
|
