Managing diabetes involves more than just regulating blood sugar levels—it requires comprehensive care for your entire body, particularly your feet. Diligent foot care is essential for people with diabetes to prevent severe health consequences.
This blog will provide you with valuable insights into basic foot care practices to safeguard your feet and avoid serious health complications.
What is Diabetes Podiatry?
Diabetes podiatry is a specialised branch of medicine focusing on foot and ankle care for people with diabetes. As a certified diabetes podiatrist with years of experience, I’ve witnessed how proper foot care can significantly impact a diabetic patient’s quality of life.
Podiatrists specialising in diabetic care are trained to prevent, diagnose, and treat foot-related complications that often accompany diabetes.
Why Do Diabetics Need Special Foot Care?
Diabetes often leads to poor blood circulation and nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy), especially in the extremities, including the feet. Over time, this can result in a loss of sensation, making it difficult to feel cuts and blisters.
Additionally, diabetes can slow down the healing process, turning minor cuts or blisters into severe ulcers or infections. In severe cases, untreated infections may lead to amputations.
This is where diabetes podiatry becomes crucial. A podiatrist specialising in diabetic foot care can help prevent complications by identifying early signs of trouble and recommending personalised treatment plans.
Routine checkups with a podiatrist, combined with diligent at-home foot care, can make a significant difference in maintaining your foot health.
Before and After Diabetes
Daily Foot Care Tips for Diabetics
Caring for your feet daily is a simple yet effective way to prevent complications. Here’s how you can integrate foot care into your routine:
1. Inspect Your Feet Daily
Make it a habit to thoroughly inspect your feet every day for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or sores. Since diabetic neuropathy can reduce your ability to feel pain, you might not notice injuries right away. Use a mirror to check the soles of your feet or ask a family member for help if needed. Identifying issues earlier can prevent them from worsening.
2. Wash and Dry Your Feet Properly
Cleanliness is essential for healthy feet. Wash your feet daily with lukewarm water and mild soap, but avoid soaking them for long periods, as this can dry out the skin. After washing, gently dry your feet with a soft towel, paying extra attention to the areas between your toes. Excess moisture between the toes can lead to fungal infections like athlete’s foot.
3. Moisturise Your Feet, But Avoid the Toes
Dry skin can crack and lead to infections, so it’s important to keep your feet moisturised. Apply a diabetic-friendly foot cream or lotion to the tops and bottoms of your feet. Avoid applying the moisturiser between your toes, as it can create an environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive.
4. Choose the Right Footwear
Wearing the right shoes is vital for diabetic foot care. Choose comfortable, well-fitted shoes that provide ample support and protection. Avoid high heels, tight shoes, or footwear with pointed toes, as these can cause pressure points and increase the risk of blisters. Opt for seamless socks made of breathable materials to minimise irritation.
Additional Precautions for Diabetic Foot Care
Apart from daily foot care, a diabetic patient should adopt certain lifestyle habits to further protect their feet:
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- Avoid Walking Barefoot: Walking barefoot increases the risk of cuts, splinters, and other injuries that may go unnoticed. Ensure your feet are always covered. Wear shoes or slippers consistently, including when you are indoors.
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- Trim Nails Carefully: Trim your toenails straight across to avoid cutting them too short, which can lead to ingrown toenails. If you’re unsure how to trim them safely, ask your podiatrist for assistance.
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- Stay Away from Harsh Remedies: Avoid using chemical treatments for corns, calluses, or warts, as these can damage the skin and lead to infections. Consult your podiatrist for safe alternatives.
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- Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: Keeping your blood sugar levels within the recommended range can significantly reduce the risk of foot complications. Follow your doctor’s advice regarding diet, medication, and exercise to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
NOTE: Taking proactive steps today can save you from potential complications tomorrow. Remember, your feet carry you everywhere you go— show them the care and attention they deserve.
Managing Blood Circulation
Poor blood circulation in diabetic patients can exacerbate foot problems. Here are some ways to improve circulation and keep your feet healthy:
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- Avoid crossing your legs while sitting, as this position can restrict blood flow.
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- Elevate your feet when sitting or lying down to promote blood flow.
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- Schedule short breaks throughout the day to stretch and walk around.
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- Engage in low-impact exercises like walking, which can improve circulation and overall health.
Recognising Early Warning Signs
Early detection is key to preventing severe foot complications in diabetics. Be alert for the following warning signs:
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- Persistent pain, swelling, or redness in the feet
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- Cuts or sores that don’t heal
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- Numbness, tingling, or a burning sensation
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- Skin that feels cold to the touch or has a bluish tint
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- Foul-smelling discharge from a wound
If you experience any of these symptoms, please seek an immediate professional assessment from a podiatrist. Timely intervention can prevent the progression of minor issues into major complications.
The Role of Regular Podiatry Visits
Routine visits to a podiatrist are essential for diabetics. A podiatrist can perform regular foot exams, treat calluses, trim toenails properly, and check for signs of ulcers or infections. They can also provide custom orthotics or recommend specialised footwear to alleviate pressure and reduce the risk of injuries.
Podiatrists also educate patients on recognising early warning signs of diabetic foot complications. If you notice any unusual changes in your feet, such as discoloration, swelling, or persistent pain, don’t delay seeking professional advice.
Visit Sydney Podiatry Today!
Sydney Podiatry Clinic specialises in providing expert diabetes podiatry services to help you maintain healthy and happy feet. With years of experience and a patient-centred approach, we are dedicated to preventing, diagnosing, and treating diabetic foot complications.
Whether you need routine foot care or expert advice on diabetic foot management, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Don’t wait for foot issues to worsen—contact us today to book an appointment. Let’s step foot into a healthier tomorrow!
