Show Some Love For Your Diabetic Feet…Diabetic Feet Tips.
Your feet are vital! Just because they are at the bottom of your body, don’t relegate them to the bottom of your list!!
It is vital you pay attention to your feet every day, to prevent as many issues as possible from arising, and nipping in the bud any that do….
So, how can you do this? Although this list is by no means exhaustive of all the ways you need to care for your feet, it provides some good tips:
- Drying. Don’t be tempted to give your feet just a quick dab to dry them when you take them out the water. Use a soft towel and dry them thoroughly. As you dry, check in between the toes for cracks or corns that may be developing. Check the soles of your feet as well. If it helps, place a mirror on the floor to do this or ask someone to take a look for you.
- Cracks and corns. If you do discover a crack, a corn, or some other issue, apply some mild antiseptic to help prevent infection setting in, and arrange an appointment with a GP or podiatrist straight away.
- Socks. Change your socks or tights every day, for fresh, clean ones, which aren’t too restrictive on the feet, and ensure they don’t have seams or holes that rub. Socks can be bought that are seam free if necessary, or have a looser ankle grip on them.
- Shoes. When choosing footwear, buy items that aren’t too tight and don’t have any stitching or prominent seams that may cause rubbing. Again, shoe companies exist that make shoes designed with this in mind eg Dr Comfort. Also, don’t be tempted to share your shoes, as fungal infections can be transmitted from other people’s footwear. (If you suffer with fungal nail, see our fungal nail treatment page for more information about this condition
- Washing. Ensure you wash your feet every day in warm water. Use your elbow to check the temperature of the water as your feet and hands may not be able to distinguish the temperature correctly and you need to prevent against scalding yourself. Use soap rather than detergent, or if your feet are really dry, use an emulsion (your GP can prescribe this).
- Moisturising. Don’t apply creams in between your toes as it can make the area moist which is a prime breeding ground for fungal infections. (If you have a fungal infection, or are seeking fungal nail treatment, please see our fungal nail treatment page)
- Bare feet. Do not be tempted to feel the air and walk barefoot. As much as you may want to feel the sand between your toes, or the softness of your fluffy rug, it is important that your feet are protected…always! You never know when a piece of lego may be lurking!
- Heat. Do not be tempted to warm your feet up in front of the fire, you may not feel the heat and it could result in nasty burns. The sun can be just as lethal and again you may not be able to feel your feet burning so take care when in sunny climes! Equally, make sure your feet are kept warm when the cold temperatures hit.
- Nail cutting. If you struggle to cut your nails, seek professional help. Don’t be tempted to let lovely Maureen next door have a go. Although she may be well intentioned, your feet are too valuable to you and the slightest nick could lead to greater issues in the long run.
- Seek professional help. Above all, if you ever have any concerns regarding your feet seek professional help from a GP, Podiatrist or your diabetic nurse. Diabetics can often suffer with poor circulation and numbness in the feet. The high blood sugar levels can also mean that bacteria can breed easily. Infections can also be slow to heal which means more serious complications can arise. If you experience pain in the foot, swelling, colour changes in the skin or the skin is hot to the touch, sores that aren’t healing, pain or difficulty in moving your foot seek help.
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER:-
The information is not a substitute for professional medical care by a qualified doctor or other health care professional. Always check with your doctor if you have any concerns about your condition or treatment. “The Foot & Ankle Clinic” is not responsible or liable, directly or indirectly, for any form of damages whatsoever resulting from the use (or misuse) of information contained in or implied by the information in this document. This document is provided for information only.