Diabetes Requires Special Foot Care

For those with Type II diabetes, taking special precautions to protect one’s feet is particularly important to prevent serious foot problems that could result in the loss of a toe, foot or leg.

“People with diabetes often have nerve damage called neuropathy, which leads to a decreased ability to feel pain, heat or cold in the feet,” says Sanjit Bindra, MD, medical director of Lakewood Hospital Diabetes and Endocrine Center. “In addition, the disease reduces blood flow to the feet, making it harder for a blister or sore to heal.”

For these reasons, it’s important for people with diabetes to pay special attention to their feet in order to avoid complications. “First, take care of your diabetes to maintain your health and prevent complications,” says Dr. Bindra. “Keep blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible, and take your insulin or other medicine exactly as prescribed.”

Here are some tips to help you keep your feet healthy:
• Be sure your doctor inspects your feet at least once a year, or more often if needed.

• Inspect your feet every day. Check for red spots, cuts, blisters, swelling or nail problems. Call your doctor if you have cuts or breaks in the skin or have an ingrown toenail. Tell him or her if your foot changes color, shape, or feels different.

• Wash your feet daily using a soft washcloth and lukewarm water. Blot or pat dry, and carefully dry between your toes.

• Rub a little moisturizer over the tops and bottoms of your feet to prevent dry skin, itching or cracking. The moisturizer helps compensate for the nerves that control the oil and moisture in your foot that no longer work. Do not use the moisturizer between your toes, as that could lead to a fungal infection.

• Carefully cut your nails straight across and file the edges. Do not cut too short, as, as this could lead to ingrown toenails.

• Never self-treat corns or calluses. See your doctor for appropriate treatment.

• Wear clean and dry socks every day. Avoid tight elastic bands that reduce circulation or thick, bulky socks that fit poorly and irritate the skin.

• Wear socks if your feet get cold at night. Never use a heating pad or hot water bottle.

• Wear properly fitted shoes – soft leather or canvas are best for daily wear. Slowly break in new shoes by wearing them for no more than an hour a day for several days. Have at least two pairs of shoes so you can alternate them every other day.

• Shake out your shoes and feel inside before wearing, since you may not be able to feel a foreign object inside.

• Never walk barefoot. Always wear shoes or slippers to protect your feet.

• Never let your feet get wet in snow or rain. Wear warm socks and shoes in winter.

• Protect your feet from heat. Wear shoes at the beach or on hot pavement. Never put your feet into hot water.

• Be more active. Exercise stimulates blood flow in the legs and feet. Walk in sturdy, good-fitting, comfortable shoes, but don't walk when you have open sores. Always check with your doctor before getting started.

• Keep blood flowing to your feet by elevating them while sitting, or by wiggling your toes and moving your ankles up and down for five minutes several times a day. Do not cross your legs for long periods of time.

• Don't smoke; smoking makes arteries harden faster. Work with your doctor to keep blood pressure and cholesterol under control.

 

 

The Lakewood Hospital Diabetes and Endocrine Center focuses on disease management, education, and prevention as well as the treatment of other endocrine disorders. The center serves as a vital resource for patients and physicians. For more information or to make an appointment, please call 216-529-5300.