5 Tips For Caring For Diabetic Feet
Diabetics should take care of their feet as much as possible. That’s because diabetes can cause nerve damage and reduce blood flow to your feet, which can lead to serious problems like infections, corns, ulcers, and even amputation.
Here are our top 5 tips for diabetics on caring for their feet
Inspect Your Feet Daily
Two of the most common foot issues caused by diabetes are nerve damage and poor blood flow. These two issues can escalate, leading to cuts, blisters and infections on the feet, so it’s imperative to check your feet daily for any signs of redness or swelling. In the event of any abnormalities, please contact your podiatrist as soon as possible.
Wash Your Feet Daily
Wash your feet with mild soap and warm water daily, and keep an eye out for any cuts or scrapes that could become infected. This is also an ideal time to check over your feet, as mentioned in the tip above.
It’s also important to ensure your feet are always well-moisturised so they don’t get cracked and painful. You can use moisturiser all over the foot but try not to get it between the toes as this can lead to moisture buildup.
Wear Shoes That Fit Properly
Shoes should fit properly. Choosing the right shoe goes beyond simply selecting a style and size. After all, a comfortable shoe is not just about its aesthetic design; it also has to fit your foot.
A poorly-fitting pair of shoes can cause irritation, blisters and even sores on the feet. It is important to have good shoes that provide enough support and cushioning so that you can wear them for a long time.
Avoid Heat on The Foot
Avoid using hot water bottles, heating pads, and electric blankets on your feet, as these can burn your skin if you have decreased sensation in your feet.
Avoid Sitting Legs Crossed
If you have diabetes, you are already prone to circulation issues and reduced blood flow to the feet. We recommend avoiding sitting with legs crossed, especially for extended periods, as this can cut off circulation to your feet, worsening blood flow.
Bonus tip: See Your Podiatrist
It is generally recommended that if you have diabetes, you see a podiatrist at least once a year for a diabetic foot exam or more often if you have any foot problems or are at high risk for foot problems.
A podiatrist, like ourselves, can help identify and treat any issues and provide advice on how to take care of your feet and prevent future problems.