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Of the sixteen million
Americans with diabetes, 25% will develop foot problems related
to the disease. Diabetic foot conditions develop from a combination
of causes including poor circulation and neuropathy. Diabetic
Neuropathy can cause insensitivity or a loss of ability to feel
pain, heat, and cold. Diabetics suffering from neuropathy
can develop minor cuts, scrapes, blisters, or pressure sores that
they may not be aware of due to the insensitivity. If these
minor injuries are left untreated, complications may result and
lead to ulceration and possibly even amputation. Neuropathy
can also cause deformities such as Bunions, Hammer Toes, and Charcot
Feet.
It is very important for diabetics to take the necessary precautions
to prevent all foot related injuries. Due to the consequences
of neuropathy, daily observation of the feet is critical.
When a diabetic patient takes the necessary preventative footcare
measures, it greatly reduces the risks of serious foot conditions.
Do’s
- Inspect your feet daily for blisters, cuts,
and scratches. The use of a mirror can aid in seeing the bottom
of your feet. Always check between your toes.
- Wash you feet daily. Dry carefully, especially
between your toes.
- Avoid extreme temperatures. Test water
with your hands or elbow before bathing.
- If your feet feel cold at night, wear socks.
- Inspect the insides of your shoes daily for
foreign objects, nail points, torn linings, and rough areas.
- For dry feet, use a very thin coat of lubricating
oil such as baby oil. Apply this after bathing and drying
your feet.
- Shoes should be fitted by a footcare specialist
and be comfortable at the time of purchase. Shoes should be
made with leather.
- In the winter months take special precautions.
Wear wool socks and protective foot gear, such as fleece lined
boots.
- Cut your nails straight across.
- See your physician regularly and be sure to
have your feet examined at each visit.
Don'ts
- Do not smoke
- Do not apply hot water bottles or heating pads.
Do not soak your feet in hot water.
- Do not walk on hot surfaces such as sandy beaches
or on the cement around swimming pools.
- Do not walk barefooted.
- Do not use chemical agents for the removal
of corns and calluses. Do not use strong antiseptic
solutions on your feet.
- Do not use adhesive tape on your feet.
- Do not soak your feet.
- Do not wear mended stockings and avoid stockings
with seams.
- Do not use oil or cream between your toes.
- Do not wear shoes without stockings.
- Do not wear sandals with thongs between the
toes.
- Do not cut corns or calluses; see your physician.
- Do not cross your legs. This can cause
pressure on the nerves and blood vessels.
Diabetic Footcare Tips
- Did you know that Medicare covers extra depth
footwear for diabetic patients? Ask your doctor if you
qualify for special shoes covered by Medicare.
- Wear socks that fit you properly. Choose
socks that are made of cotton or wool. Be cautious not
to wear socks that are too tight that can cut off circulation
to the feet.
- Place protective slippers or shoes right beside
your bed to wear as soon as you get out of bed to avoid walking
barefooted.
- The best time to trim toenails is after bathing.
The nails are softer and easier to trim at that time.
Cut your toenails straight across and not too short. Do
not cut into the corners of your nails. Consult a doctor
if your nails are too thick and difficult to cut.
- Wiggle your toes and move your ankles up and
down for 5 minutes, 2 or 3 times a day. This increases
the blood flow to your feet.
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