7 Foot Care Tips for Diabetics

coolblues · Nov 14, 2012

Foot is a problematic area for diabetics. This is due to low supply of blood, oxygen and nutrients to the feet. This is the reason why diabetics should take due care with respect to cuts, sores, blisters in the foot as it takes a long time to heal. If they are not treated on time, it can even lead to amputation. Here, are some foot care tips for diabetics.

Check and clean your feet daily. Look for blisters, sores and infections in between the toes. You may not feel the pain until the area gets irritated or infected. Soak your feet in warm water and clean with a simple brush to keep it clean. Focus on heels, toes, areas between toes, dead skin, etc. Remember to dry your feet thoroughly.

Always check the water temperature with your elbow before you get in for a wash, bath or shower. It is quite difficult for people with diabetes to detect the temperature immediately because of nervous damage.

It is worthy investing in the right footwear since even the slightest irritation to the toes or skin can cause infection. Remember to check for the heels, seams, sharp objects or edges of footwear before purchasing. There are specially designed shoes for diabetic people, which are available at specialty stores.

Never venture out barefoot. Wearing footwear protects your feet against accidents such as cuts, pricks and scrapes. It is also advisable to wear soft slippers even inside the house. This is important because of neuropathy, an associated condition that affects diabetic people.

Always keep the skin dry, especially during monsoon and summer season. Remove wet footwear immediately and dry the area thoroughly. You can also consider putting medicated powder to keep the foot dry and prevents the growth of fungus.

Keep your feet less stressed while exercising. There are several activities such as jumping, leaping, and bouncing which can cause stress to your feet. You can consider low-stress activities such as walking. But do choose the right shoe for any activity that you may choose.

To cut back on foot woes, controlling the blood sugar levels is of high importance. Normal blood sugar levels reduce diabetic nerve pain to a great extent. Do make efforts to control the sugar level with a healthy diet, exercise and medications.

mimur9 · Nov 15, 2012

good tips coolblues. Apt post on World Diabetes Day

Bhavani22 · Nov 15, 2012

Excellent coolblues!
Foot and eyes are the most vulnerable organs in diabetics and difficult to treat once affected.
I would like to add this point. Please consult the diabetologist /physician when there are any signs of foot injury.Don't treat yourself as diabetics acquire infection easily.Starting treatment earlier helps in easy recovery.

andalrengu · Nov 15, 2012

thanks for the information!!!

padmapriya1 · Nov 15, 2012

Wonderful post for today...

A007A · Dec 3, 2012

nice tip thanks for sharing

varhem · Dec 3, 2012

Good and useful tips

cedantseq · Dec 3, 2012

very useful tips coolblues,

ziesha001 · Dec 7, 2012

Keep the blood flowing to your feet. Put your feet up when sitting. Wiggle your toes and move your ankles up and down for 5 minutes, two (2) or three (3) times a day. Don't cross your legs for long periods of time. Don't smoke.
Get started now. Begin taking good care of your feet today. Set a time every day to check your feet.