Diabetes affects your body, especially your feet. If not cared for properly, issues like blisters or cuts can lead to difficult problems, such as foot infections. To keep your feet healthy, follow these three simple steps.
If you have diabetes, these are the three most important things you have to do to avoid feet complications:
Perform a daily visual check of your feet.
Due to diabetes-related nerve damage, diabetics often experience reduced sensation in their feet. This diminished ability to feel pain, or even an absence of pain, can result in a lack of awareness regarding cuts or blisters, potentially leading to more severe complications if left untreated.
Consequently, it is crucial to diligently inspect your feet every day. Beyond checking for blisters and cuts, be attentive to signs such as hard skin, wounds, cracks, and abrupt changes in skin color.
Ensure a thorough examination, including the bottom of your feet, spaces between each toe, and the back of the heel—areas that may not be easily visible. Cultivate this routine, treating it with the same importance as brushing your teeth!
Choose well-fitted shoes for optimal foot comfort.
When selecting shoes, prioritize those with:
- a stiff sole that doesn't easily bend,
- a spacious toe-box avoiding friction with your feet or toes,
- a soft upper that snugly fits, and
- a securing strap across the top.
When wearing new shoes, it's recommended to wear them at home first and check for any signs of rubbing or blistering before wearing them for a full day out.
If you notice red spots on your skin after wearing your shoes, it is likely that your feet are rubbing against your shoes and may cause a blister. If left uncheck, blisters can quickly become infected.
Additional Tip: Check in the inside of your shoe every time before you put them on to ensure there are no foreign objects.
Consult a podiatrist for thick calluses on the bottom of your feet.
If you observe thick callus formation, it's essential to seek professional advice and management from a podiatrist.
Avoid attempting to remove them with sharp objects, as this may lead to complications, including potential infections. Seek medical attention whenever in doubt. Early detection and early treatment can prevent amputations.
- Article contributed by Podiatry, Rehabilitation, Allied Health Services -
