Diabetic Foot Care

People with diabetes are much more likely to suffer nerve damage, circulation problems, and infections, all directly affecting the feet. Diabetes can significantly reduce the blood supply to the feet, meaning a loss of feeling causing a condition known as peripheral neuropathy. As a result, foot injuries can go undetected, allowing a small blister to turn into an extensive infection that could lead to amputation. Furthermore, nerve damage can cause the skin to crack and dry out, leaving an open invitation for bacteria and fungi to enter the body which could cause a whole host of problems such as a fungal nail infection or much worse.

The key to ensuring problem-free feet with diabetes is to ensure you are taking measures to prevent any common or basic injuries, as well as regular checkups with your podiatrist. 

It is essential to be proactive rather than reactive when it comes to preventing diabetic complications. Meaning regular visits to your doctor, exercising, and eating a healthy and balanced diet. It is also essential you pay particular attention to your feet by regularly inspecting them, and this should include:

• Searching for puncture wounds, bruises, redness, blisters, ulcers, cuts, and scratches

• Examine the bottoms of your feet and toes

• Thoroughly wash your feet with soap and warm water

• Use lotion to keep your feet moisturised

• Trim toenails regularly

• Smooth our corns and calluses

Diabetic foot care essentials

First things first, wearing correctly fitting shoes is a must in keeping your feet healthy - a poorly fitted shoe can lead to an array of problems such as corns, calluses or hammertoe. Walking or athletic shoes are excellent for daily wear as they support your feet and allow them to breathe. 

Next, you also need to consider the socks you are wearing. Ensure they are clean, padded and dry. People with diabetes should avoid walking barefoot at all costs, meaning socks should be worn consistently. In doing so, you protect your feet against sores and blisters and prevent fungal and bacterial infections from spreading. 

This next tip may be difficult for some. However, quitting smoking to protect your feet is imperative. Smoking impairs blood circulation, particularly in people with diabetes. It can seriously worsen foot and leg complications. 

People with diabetes should also cut their toenails with care. Ensuring they are cut straight across, and the edges filed - make sure they are not cut too short this can create ingrown toenails. 

Finally, properly managing your diabetes and protecting your feet is essential to save you a bucket load of complications. Therefore, you should have your feet checked as part of your annual diabetes review. You may be eligible for an NHS podiatrist if you have diabetes and are experiencing symptoms affecting your feet. 

And, don't forget diabetes is a severe condition that, if improperly managed, can become potentially life-threatening. So, if you're struggling with diabetes and foot complications, do not hesitate to contact a podiatrist.