Diabetic Foot Care: Keeping Feet Healthy In Spite Of The Disease

Without proper care, diabetes can affect multiple body systems. Feet can easily become problems for anyone with diabetes because blood circulation can slow and oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood reaches the feet more slowly. In addition, some diabetics suffer foot nerve pain or have other nerve problems. Therefore, special attention and focus should be on your feet if you have the disease; the following should be done frequently:

Look for Cuts or Sores

Cuts and sores can be particularly bad for you as a diabetic for two reasons. First, your nerves could be damaged from the disease and you might not even feel that there's a problem. Secondly, a sore or cut could heal slowly because of poor circulation, putting the site at risk for infection and even more damage. When you shower or bathe, you ought to look carefully at the bottom of each foot and in between your toes so any problems are seen and dealt with.

Dry Feet Completely

Wet feet are not good for anyone because of the chance of nail fungus and athlete's foot, but if you've got a disease like diabetes, you've got to be even more serious about keeping your feet dry. Fungus and bacteria are tough to get rid of, and any breaks in the skin can develop into serious sores.

Once dry, feet should be kept that way. Always wear socks when you've got on closed-toe shoes and be conscious of when your feet are getting sweaty.

Use Moisturizer

Poor circulation caused by your health condition can manifest itself as dry skin that might, over time, begin to crack and open into wounds. Ensure feet remain supple by a daily moisturizing regiment. When lathering your skin with moisturizer, skip between toes, as this area could remain moist too long and that could cause other trouble.

Wear Good Shoes

To keep your feet safe, your shoes should not pinch or squeeze your toes or heels. Ill-fitting shoes could cause corns, calluses, blisters, and foot problems that need to be monitored and healed with care. Ensure you're wearing comfortable boots and shoes that aren't tight.

Move Those Feet

To battle poor circulation, engaging your toes and feet in an exercise of some kind is wise. Wiggle toes, roll feet around in both directions, or take up walking to encourage blood to flow directly to your feet.

Your feet are valuable and can be protected from diabetes with some attention. Discuss your feet with a diabetic foot care specialist for more information and assistance. 


Share