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Foot complications are one of the most common health problems associated with diabetes. According to one source, about 60 percent of non-traumatic leg amputations are performed on people with diabetes. Now, this is a depressing statistic, no doubt. However, most of these amputations can be prevented by maintaining proper foot care in people with diabetes. Inadequate foot care is the main cause of foot ulcers in diabetics, which can ultimately lead to amputation when injuries are ignored.
Diabetic can minimize and prevent further foot problems with the following three tips:
1. Choose the right footwear
As a diabetic, avoiding tight fitting shoes is a must. This is one of the most common causes of diabetic foot problems. Instead, always wear shoes that are comfortable, have good cushioning, and enough space for your toes, but not too loose. If one foot is bigger than the other, have custom shoes made that accommodate each foot’s size.
Besides comfortable shoes, wearing good socks is just as important. This is because poorly made socks can rub against the skin and cause blisters and abrasions on the feet. The best choice is wearing diabetic socks. These are specially made socks that have minimal seams and come with proper cushioning to protect the the feet from irritation and blisters. These socks have loose-fitting tops that help promote circulation in the legs and feet. Wearing diabetic socks for women can keep the feet protected.
2. Keep your feet clean
Proper foot hygiene is another smart way to prevent diabetic foot problems. Carefully wash your feet daily with mild soap and water and then dry them with a towel. Before your feet dry completely, apply a moisturizer to help maintain good skin health. This is important because using a lotion can re-hydrate and help prevent dryness of the feet. Excessively dry feet can lead to cracking and eventually to foot ulcers if bacteria gets into these cracks. For those that live in a less humid environment, wearing socks immediately after washing your feet is recommended. This is another way to prevent the skin from cracking due to dry weather.
3. Check your feet daily
Some diabetics have more severe symptoms than others. One of the biggest problems is diabetic neuropathy, also known as damaged nerves. This condition impairs the sense of touch especially to the feet and legs. That is why many people with diabetic neuropathy may not be unaware of cuts, abrasions, or other injuries to their feet. Neglecting even small wounds on the feet can often lead to more serious issues such as infections and even amputation. For people that are unable to see some areas of their feet, use a mirror or ask someone else to check them. It is also advisable to visit a doctor regularly for foot examinations, just in case there are some important warning signs you might have missed. For diabetics, checking your feet and legs every day for cuts, cracks, blisters, and other early signs of injury is crucial.
Wearing the proper footwear, keeping the feet clean, and checking the feet regularly are important steps to maintaining healthy feet. By following the proper foot care, diabetics can prevent many types of foot injuries that could lead to more serious conditions.