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Diabetes is a chronic condition that can cause serious nerve
damage. The common symptoms of nerve damage include pain, numbness, tingling and burning sensation in the feet. As nerve damage often causes lack
of protective sensation in the feet, skin injuries can occur without being
perceived by the patient as painful and then become chronic wounds.
In severe cases, this may lead to amputation.
Diabetics should check their feet regularly. They should also look out
for red areas, sores, calluses, corns, blisters, swelling, toenail
infections and in-grown toenails. If you have a diabetic foot
complications, it is important to seek early treatment, any injuries may
lead to amputation if left untreated. Following are some important foot
care guidelines for people with foot complications.
Diabetic Foot Care Guidelines :
- Take Good Care Of Your Feet -
Keep your feet
clean, wash them every day with lukewarm (not hot) water and mild
soap.
- Check Your Feet Daily - Inspect carefully at your feet each day.
Look for redness, sores, cuts, blisters, swellings, calluses and corns,
changes in skin colour, ingrown toe nails and so on. If you are unable
to see your feet, use a mirror or ask someone to help you.
Call your doctor
if you notice anything.
- Dry Your Feet Well - Use a soft towel and pat gently; don't rub. Dry
carefully, especially between the toes. Dusting them with non-medicated
powder before putting on shoes, socks or stockings.
- Moisturize Your Feet - If you have dry and cracking skin apply cream
or lanolin lotion, especially on the heels. Do not moisturize between
the toes as this could encourage a fungal infection.
- Do not soak or wash your feet too long as this will make your skin
too soft and fragile.
- Don't go barefoot, even when indoors. You might damage the skin when
tread on something.
- Don’t Let Your Feet Get Too Hot Or Cold - Check the bath temperature
with your hand before stepping in, do not use electric blankets or foot
spas.
- Exercises and massage your feet everyday to stimulate blood
circulation.
- Keep Your Toenails Trimmed - Cut your nails by following the nail
curvature and file your toenails to smoothen them.
Diabetic Footwear Guidelines
Diabetes increases your risk
for developing foot problems therefore proper-fitting shoes and socks are
especially important. Following are some important points to consider with
your footwear :
-
Choose footwear that properly
fit the shape of your feet. Don't wear uncomfortable or tight shoes that
might hurt your feet. For extremely hard-to-fit feet, a custom-made shoe
is highly recommended.
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Don't wear shoes without
socks - socks can reduce risk of infection, pressure and blistering.
-
Avoid shoes with high heels
or pointed toes – such shoes increase pressure and may cause ulcers.
-
Do not wear open-toed shoes
or sandals with a strap between the first toes.
-
Reduce shock and pressure on
your feet - custom-made orthotics can offer a high level of comfort and
pressure relief.
-
Have at least 2 pairs of
shoes and socks so that you can change every day.
-
If you are wearing a pair of
new shoes, break in slowly by wearing them for no more than an hour a day
for several days.
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