If you have diabetes, you may encounter leg and foot issues. You are also likely to develop calluses, corns, bunions, blisters, and ulcers if you have diabetes and high blood sugar implies that these relatively small alterations and injuries might serve as entry points for infections that could be incapacitating. Fortunately, Aloha Foot and Ankle Associates provides diabetic foot care to protect your feet.
Also, there are several steps you can take to maintain your feet in good shape. Here are tips for diabetic foot care:
- Don’t go barefoot, whether you’re inside or outside
Most people understand the need to wear sturdy shoes outside to protect their feet, but even indoors, stumbling around barefoot puts your feet at risk for minor injuries including cuts and scratches. If you have neuropathy, you might not detect these harmful consequences until they get infected. It’s best to always wear shoes, even inside the house.
Make sure that your hygiene regimen includes drying your feet. Since the area between the toes is relatively airtight, the skin becomes wet and deteriorates, opening the door to infection. To avoid this, fully dry your feet after washing them and remove any soiled or sweaty shoes or socks immediately. You may use moisturizer to stop dry, cracked skin; just avoid applying it directly.
- See a podiatrist regularly to treat foot problems
Even seemingly harmless calluses can develop into issues if you neglect them. Instead of going to the drugstore for an over-the-counter foot medication, think about putting a podiatrist on your diabetic healthcare team. Some solutions irritate the skin and can increase the risk of infection even while they cure the bunion, callus, or corn on your foot.
- Go easy on your feet with low-impact exercises
Exercise is beneficial for those with diabetes, but what sort is best? While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to diabetic exercise, you should be aware that many fitness programs and aerobics routines involve bouncing, hopping, and skipping, which may be bad for your feet. Particularly if you have neuropathy, this is valid. Instead, research exercises that won’t put too much strain on your feet, like walking or swimming. Just make sure you have the appropriate footwear for the activity you select.
- Quit smoking to improve circulation in your feet
Smoking has risks to every part of your body, including your feet. If you smoke, you are denying your feet of the nutrient- and oxygen-rich blood that fights illness and keeps them healthy since the toxins in cigarette smoke harm and restrict your blood vessels. Diabetes patients are already at risk for blood vessel damage. Therefore, quitting smoking can improve your health.
- Stabilize and relieve feet with orthotic shoes
Since wearing correct shoes is vital, orthotic footwear is a fantastic investment in comfort and safety. You may purchase shoes explicitly designed for people with diabetes online or at specialist retailers. You can also see your podiatrist for guidance. Some insurance providers can cover one pair of extra-deep or custom-molded diabetic shoes each year, with additional inserts to relieve strain on your feet. If you have an ulcer or other sore that is not healing, your doctor could advise you to wear these shoes.
If you have diabetes, taking care of your feet is very important. Call Aloha Foot and Ankle Associates to schedule your appointment to learn more about diabetic foot care.
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