what does feet have to do with diabetes

Introduction:

Put your best foot forward, but make sure you have space for the diabetic foot too! The feet are the mirror for your blood sugar levels. Believe me when I say that diabetes and foot care go hand in hand. Almost 300 million people worldwide suffer from diabetes, a chronic illness. Diabetic foot is one of the most prevalent consequences; it can sometimes worsen and even necessitate amputations. In this blog, we will explore how to do foot care on a diabetic patient and understand why is foot care important for diabetics.

Why Is Foot Care Important For Diabetics ?

Diabetes affects all extremities of the body, namely the limbs (hands and feet). Foot issues with diabetes are one of the most common ones. There are two primary reasons why do diabetics have their feet checked often.

These causes are:

• ● Poor blood circulation
• ● Nerve damage

The nerves and tiny blood vessels in the feet get damaged over time by high blood sugar levels. This results in reduced blood supply to the feet, as well as nerve injury (neuropathy). Both these events come with their share of complications.

Let’s review these complications in brief:

● Complications associated with neuropathy:

Loss of sensation in the feet due to a nerve injury can make it challenging to identify wounds, blisters, and ulcers. Moreover, poor circulation can delay the healing of these bruises and raise the risk of infection.

● Complications associated with reduced blood supply to the feet:

Diabetes can also affect how your foot skin and nails look. Poor blood supply leads to less skin nourishment. This causes dryness and cracking skin, making it susceptible to fungal infections. The likelihood of ingrown toenails might increase as nails grow thick and brittle. Moreover, patients with diabetes have a higher prevalence of foot abnormalities such as bunions and hammertoes. All of these elements raise the risk of infections and foot ulcers.

Now that we know why diabetes and foot care become routine for diabetics, let us see the best ways to take care of your feet and maintain blood sugar levels.

How To Do Foot Care On A Diabetic ?

Diabetes and foot care involve more than just taking care of your feet. If you do not manage your blood sugar levels and get rid of your sedentary lifestyle, no amount of foot care can solve the complications of your diabetic foot. Here I will give you 10 easy tips that you can start right away and say goodbye to diabetic foot.

10 Tips On How To Do Foot Care On A Diabetic Patient:

1. Check your feet daily

Notice and examine your feet every day to avoid foot issues. Take a close look at your feet for any wounds, blisters, or sores. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with your diabetologist if you see anything.
Early detection of foot issues can stop them from worsening.

2. Get periodic foot exams

Even if there are no symptoms, have your feet checked! Your diabetologist might examine you for any evidence of a nerve injury or poor circulation. In addition, they can assist you in dealing with any potential foot issues.

3. Wash and dry your feet daily

Wash your feet while bathing and after wearing shoes regularly. Use warm water and mild, detergent-free soap. Hot water and harsh soaps may further dry the skin, causing it to flake. Avoid soaking your feet for more than 10 minutes, as this may cause the stripping of your natural skin oils.

After cleaning, make sure to take a clean, dry towel and wipe every nook and cranny of your
feet. Dry the crevices between the toes. Excessive moisture is a breeding ground for fungi.

4. Moisturize your feet regularly

Diabetes patients frequently experience dry skin, so it’s crucial to periodically moisturize your feet. Both the top and bottom of your foot should be moisturized. However, applying lotion between your toes should be avoided, as these crevices with moisture are the best grounds for fungal growth.

5. Trim and clean your toenails often

Toenail trimming is a crucial component of foot care, but it must be done properly. Trim your toenails evenly, and file any jagged edges. Avoid over-shortening your nails to prevent ingrown toenails. Get a medical expert to trim your toenails if you have problems doing it yourself.

If you enjoy pedicures, be careful and pick a spa that maintains good sanitation standards. Ensure that the salon cleans its equipment and foot baths after each client. Avoid having your cuticles cut because doing so can make you more susceptible to infection.

6. Elevate and rest your feet every day

Elevating your feet can help with edema reduction and blood circulation. Many times every day, try to elevate your feet for 15-20 minutes. When doing this, raise your feet on a pillow or stool.

7. Avoid crossing your legs while sitting

By putting pressure on the blood vessels, crossing your legs can restrict circulation, which might cause issues with your feet. If you plan to sit for an extended amount of time, try not to cross your legs.

8. Wear well-fitting shoes; clean your shoes often

The health of your feet depends on wearing shoes that fit properly. Choose footwear with a roomy toe box and strong arch support. Stay away from heels and shoes that are too small. Wearing socks with your shoes can help prevent shoe bites.

Clean your shoes often, Foot sweat and dust are the ideal breeding grounds for foot fungus.

9. Opt for diabetic socks

Diabetes sufferers might get extra support and cushioning from diabetic socks. These can lessen the chance of foot injury and provide good foot support. They also absorb excess foot sweat. If you’re unclear about which kind to use, speak with your diabetologist about diabetic socks.

10. Avoid adventures on barefoot

If you have diabetes, it’s not a good idea to go barefoot. Serious infections can result from even the smallest scrapes or wounds. Wear shoes or slippers at all times, even inside.

Conclusion

Now that you know why is foot care important for diabetics, also understand that diabetes and foot care will not be successful if you do not maintain the blood sugar levels. Eat healthy, work out daily, and take your medications as recommended. Check your sugar levels every day at home and with your diabetologist to keep yourself one step ahead of diabetes.

FAQs

● What is the most common foot problem with diabetes?

The most common foot problem with diabetes is peripheral artery disease (PAD), which alters the structure of the blood vessels that supply the foot and reduces the blood supply there. Neuropathy, or damaged nerves, is also a common issue in the foot of a diabetic.

● What is the best treatment for diabetic neuropathy in feet?

Diabetic neuropathy in the feet can be treated in a number of ways, including with drugs including anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and pain relievers. Further alleviation could be offered by physical therapy, acupuncture, and nerve stimulation. Contact a diabetologist to decide on the most appropriate treatment for you.

● Which ointment is best for diabetic foot?

Moisturizers to prevent dryness and antibacterial lotions to treat or prevent infections may be good. Before applying any ointments or creams to diabetic feet, it’s crucial to speak with a diabetologist because some of them may contain substances that can irritate or harm the skin.