While diabetics face the same types of foot problems as non-diabetics, their feet require special attention to remain healthy.
Foot problems such as bunions, blisters, calluses, corns, and athlete’s foot are more likely to cause damage for diabetics and their recovery is more difficult.
Diabetics have excess glucose (sugar) in their bloodstreams, which can cause nerve damage and poor blood and oxygen flow to the legs and feet.
Diabetics should pay close attention to their feet.
Examine your bare feet every day for cuts, swelling, blisters, or red spots.
Use a mirror or ask someone else to help if you cannot see the bottoms of your feet. Performing daily checks is the best way to detect problems early so they don’t become serious.
Visual checks are so critical because diabetics may not be able to feel injuries. They often lose feeling in their extremities, especially their feet, due to nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy).
Symptoms include numbness, tingling, acute pain, loss of balance, and decreased ability to detect pain, heat, or cold.
Visit a podiatrist if you find a small wound or cut on your feet or legs. Due to poor circulation and other factors, diabetics have difficulty healing wounds in these areas.
If not treated promptly, even a small cut may become infected, resulting in a diabetic ulcer. Dead tissue may need to be removed. In the worst case scenario, the ulcer develops gangrene and the only remaining option is surgical amputation.
Catching an ulcer in its early stages may prevent amputation. Avoid going barefoot to protect against cuts or scrapes which may lead to an ulcer.
In addition to checking your feet daily, the American Podiatric Medical Association recommends that diabetics visit a podiatrist at least twice a year.
Moderate exercise for about 30 minutes a day improves circulation and increases blood flow to your feet, both important factors in preventing diabetic complications. Wearing proper footwear for each physical activity helps prevent exercise-related foot injuries.
You should look for properly fitted walking or running shoes. They should have plenty of room in the toe box, breathable uppers, and a snug fit at the heel. The right shoes will cushion impact stress and keep your feet well supported and dry.
Orthopedic shoes are specially designed with extra depth to hold pressure-relieving inserts. Their shock-absorbing heels and soles will cushion your steps.
Other benefits are that your foot will slide around less than in ordinary shoes and they also have excellent arch support. Consult your podiatrist to ensure that your shoes are diabetic shoes and that they are the appropriate size and fit for your feet.
Medicare may pay for orthopedic shoes prescribed by your podiatrist.
Choose cotton blend or synthetic fiber socks to wick away moisture and keep your feet dry. Avoid 100% cotton socks, which tend to hold moisture next to the skin. Moisture encourages the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Special diabetic socks minimize skin irritation, reduce compression, and offer increased comfort compared to regular socks. There are many styles available, including non-binding, extra large, or even dress diabetic socks.
Smoking causes narrowing and hardening of the blood vessels, which may further decrease the oxygen supply and healing capacity of the lower extremities.
If you are a diabetic and would like to get a full foot examination, give us a call today to schedule your appointment at 301-937-5666 or fill out the form on the top right of this page.
