Diabetic Foot Care
According to the American Diabetes Association, approximately 15.7 million people (5.9 percent of the United States population) suffer from diabetes. Nervous system damage (also called neuropathy) impacts about 60 to 70 percent of people with diabetes. Neuropathy is a significant development that may cause people with diabetes to lose feeling in their feet or hands.
The general concern with a diabetes diagnosis is blood sugar levels and insulin. It is likely that most people newly diagnosed with diabetes do not initially consider their feet as being at issue. Unfortunately, people with diabetes are more inclined to experience multiple foot problems than those without diabetes. The possibility of developing severe nerve impairment called peripheral neuropathy is high with a diagnosis of diabetes. Neuropathy can affect the whole body, but for the most part, it targets the feet and legs. Serious health complications may arise. These complications include nerve damage, which can result in the loss of feeling in the feet, making it difficult to detect pain. Being aware of the danger to the feet and using proper care early can help to minimize or prevent these issues.
Diabetic foot care
- Proper feet hygiene – Clean the feet adequately.
- Keep dry – The area between the toes should be clean and dry.
- Toenail maintenance – The toenails should be trimmed regularly.
- Inspection – Examine the feet periodically for signs such as redness, cracks in the skin, or other irregularities.
- Footwear – Use appropriately-sized footwear that supports tendons and arches. Shoes should have adequate ventilation to inhibit infection.
- Skin protection – The feet should be suitably moisturized to limit cracks in the skin.
- Foot circulation – While sitting at length, move the ankles and feet frequently to improve the flow of blood in the feet.
- Exercise – The ankles and feet should be stretched and exercised routinely.
- See a doctor – Don’t ignore pain, hoping it will go away. Visit a foot specialist before conditions worsen.
An essential factor in maintaining healthy feet and overall health, in general, is blood sugar control and a healthy immune system.
Diabetes is an epidemic. It is necessary to work with a physician to maintain healthy blood sugar levels and weight management. At the same time, a person with diabetes needs to see a podiatrist for regular foot examinations to sustain healthy feet, and to minimize the overall impact of this disease. Detection is the key, and the earlier the discovery, the better. Don’t wait, see a healthcare provider as soon as possible.
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