Because you have diabetes, your feet need special attention. The feet take a
pounding every day and are vulnerable to injury and harsh conditions. Diabetes can,
in some cases, affect both the circulation and the feeling in the nerves of the feet. As
a result, injuries, cuts and infection may not be perceived immediately and healing
delayed. This can lead to serious disabilities and complications. While not all patients
with diabetes are in eminent risk of diabetic foot complications, you should assume
you are at risk, and care for yourself accordingly. For you, preventive foot care
should be an automatic daily task, like brushing your teeth. You should,
- Examine both feet carefully every day for areas of irritation, cuts, blisters,
bruises, calluses, or infection. Use a mirror to see the bottoms of the feet.
- Keep your feet clean. Bathe them daily in warm, not hot, water. Drying between
the toes is very important.
- Avoid any extremes in temperatures to your feet. That means both hot and cold
extremes. Test the water before bathing.
- If your feet feel cold at night, wear non-binding socks.
- Do not walk barefooted.
- Wear properly fitting socks and hosiery, and change them daily.
- Soft leather shoes (including leather "tennis" shoes) are best for daily wear. The
shoes should be comfortable at the time of purchase. Do not expect them to
stretch out. New shoes should be worn for short periods at first.
- Inspect your shoes daily for objects that may have fallen inside or penetrated the
bottoms.
- If you have no complications of diabetes (circulation, nerve or eye problems),
you can cut your toenails. Cut them straight across, and not too short. An
emery board can gently be used to buff the nails - removing any sharp edges.
An emery board can also be gently used to smooth calluses or corns.
- NEVER apply any chemicals (e.g., corn, callous, wart or ingrown nail removers).
- If you have dry feet, use lubricating oils, creams or lotions after bathing and
drying your feet. Do not apply them between the toes.
- Keep in mind that smoking decreases circulation to the feet. If you smoke, see
your medical doctor for advice on giving up tobacco.
- REMEMBER: diabetic care is a team effort. See your medical doctor regularly. Control your blood sugar. Watch your diet. Involve your family, especially if you
are unable to see or care for your feet yourself.
- Plan on being seen in this office on a regular basis. Prevention of foot problems
is as important as immediate care of suspected or real complications.
If you ever develop a problem associated with your feet such as swelling,
blisters, sores, odor, discoloration, pain or drainage - CALL MY OFFICE
IMMEDIATELY !
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