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Foot Care for Diabetic Patients

Diabetics must safeguard their health in many ways each day. Beyond the rituals of blood sugar monitoring, dietary control and --- in some cases --- insulin injection, they must also stay constantly aware of the potential effects of poor blood circulation and peripheral nerve damage. Taking good care of the feet is particularly important, since inattention in this area can have severe consequences. If you are diabetic, take the time to learn and follow the basics of proper foot care.

  1. Understanding the Need for Proper Care

    • Good foot care begins with a solid understanding of the processes that can cause foot injury. For diabetics, uncontrolled glucose in the blood stream can eventually begin to damage the blood vessels that nourish the nerves in the legs and feet. Over time, the nerves themselves can become damaged, leading to sensations of burning, tingling, numbness or pain that typically start in the toes. If corrective action is not taken, all feeling in the feet can be lost. Without proper sensory information, it is possible to injure your feet without being aware of the fact. Add to this situation diminished circulation and lack of proper blood flow, and you have a perfect recipe for serious infection and permanent disability. In the most advanced cases, the process ends in the development of gangrene and the need for amputation.

    Daily Foot Examination

    • If you are diabetic, active foot care should begin long before this crippling scenario can take hold. Start by making daily examinations of your feet. Remove your socks and shoes, and in a room with adequate light check the surfaces of your feet for any irregularities. Look for cuts or bruises, as well as any bunions, other growths or overall changes in foot shape. Scan your feet with your fingertips and check for any areas that are tender or painful. Also lightly brush your feet with soft material to gauge any changes in your ability to perceive sensations. You should also pay particular attention to the color of your feet, since changes in color may mean additional loss of blood supply or nerve function. Report any changes to your doctor as they occur. Do not make the mistake of considering small changes insignificant, since they can indicate the progressive development of much larger problems.

    Additional Foot Care Guidelines

    • You should also wash your feet daily, making sure to dry every part thoroughly. Trim your toenails regularly to avoid hangnails or ingrown toenails. Remember that outside of your foot care rituals, you should wear shoes and socks at all times to avoid potential injury. Also work to maintain foot circulation through proper exercise, and in addition set up daily times to consciously work on wiggling your toes and rotating your ankles. Make sure to continue all of your foot care routines regardless of your surroundings. Vacations and weekends are not excuses to stop taking proper care of yourself.

      Finally, consult your doctor regularly for any questions you may have regarding the details of your foot care plan.

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