Why Is Diabetic Foot Care Important?

As a diagnosed type II diabetic, I know that if my sugar is high, then my skin is dry. My elbows are dry, my hands are dry, and my feet are dry. When the diabetic food dries out, cracking on the heels happens so easily. If dead skin is not removed regularly, it will build up and form thickening on the heels as well. The risk of infection from foot issues is a heavy concern for diabetics.

If blood glucose levels spike too severely and stay high for too long, diabetic neuropathy can set in and have a damaging effect on the feet. Regularly checking diabetic feet is essential. If those cracks set in, neuropathy can limit the ability to feel the pain that they usually cause. If foot issues in diabetics go untreated there is a dangerous risk of septic shock if infection sets in and gets into the bloodstream or lower extremity amputation.

What Steps Should be Taken to Care for the Feet of a Diabetic?

Wash the Feet and Thoroughly Dry Them Daily

When washing the feet, you should use warm water. Be sure to test the temperature with your elbow, and not with your feet. If neuropathy is an issue, there is a risk of scalding. By thoroughly washing the feet daily, the risk for fungal and bacterial infection is decreased considerably. Wash the feet only, do not soak them. Foot soaks are not recommended for diabetic patients.

When drying the feet, dry them well and be sure to get all moisture from the web that stretches between the toes. Once the feet are dry, apply a diabetic lotion. Cover the entire foot thoroughly, but be sure to avoid that webbing.

Inspect Your Feet While Drying and Applying Your Lotion

While applying your lotion, visually inspect your feet. Look for corns, calluses, bunions, or any other foot issues. If you’re not inspecting them daily, you may find a foot sore that has been there but not felt because of either neuropathy or a narrowing of the arteries in the legs. Catching any podiatry issues early will serve to prevent infection.

Carefully Trim Toenails or see Your Podiatrist for Assistance

Avoiding ingrown toenails is crucial for diabetic patients. If you cut your toenails too short, you are risking an ingrown nail. Toenails should always be trimmed straight across rather than in a curved shape. The lower the trim goes into the nail bed, the higher the risk of an ingrown nail. Infection in diabetic’s toes can happen very rapidly and result in gangrene or amputation of the toe or foot.

Choose Shoes That Make Your Feet Feel Good and are Good for Them

As a consensus, podiatrists agree that choosing shoes that fit well and are comfortable will ward off foot issues in the future. Many deformities, foot infections, and health problems stem from the shoes we wear. Diabetics have to avoid blisters or any other foot sores that can be a danger to their health. Your podiatrist can recommend footwear for you or many decide to fit you for orthotics.

Reducing Your Risk of Foot Injuries

First and foremost, don’t walk barefooted. You are risking numerous injuries by doing so, even in your home. Keep your feet warm and protected by wearing good quality socks. Do what you can to control your blood sugar and if you are a smoker, you should try to quit.

Consult Your Podiatrist if you Need Help Caring for Your Feet

If foot care is a challenge for you, speak to your podiatrist or primary care physician about what options are available to you to have someone come into your home to maintain a foot care regimen for you to keep those feet healthy and happy.

Vohra Wound Physicians is a physician group providing wound care management consulting solutions and services in post-acute care facilities.

—–

Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies. Home of the Lam Minimal Invasive No-Scar Bunion Surgery! Come Discover Why Patients Love Our 5-Star Foot & Ankle Care! Same Day Appointments! Easy Online Appointment Scheduling!