Is Going Barefoot an Issue for a Diabetic?

Foot care for the diabetic is crucial, and good maintenance can prevent serious foot problems. Diabetics are more likely to experience foot problems than nondiabetics, and long-term issues and loss of limb are possible if proper care is ignored. Regular checkups with a health care provider are important, and proper techniques in tending to the feet should be observed.

Significance

• Diabetics face challenges in many arenas related to health care, including heart disease and stroke, and skin, eye, oral health and foot problems.

Concerns

• Diabetics should never go barefoot because of the potential to get a cut or abrasion. The healing process for someone with diabetes is longer, and an injury could increase the chances of infection or other serious side effects beyond the feet.

Effects

• Because of poor circulation to the feet and nerve damage, diabetics can easily develop foot problems, resulting in pain and loss of sensitivity in the feet. Therefore, a diabetic may not even realize than an injury has occurred.

Considerations

• Keeping the diabetic's feet clean, dry, and covered with well-fitting socks and shoes is very important to avoid potentially serious foot problems.

Prevention/Solution

• Diabetics should have a complete foot exam yearly by their physician, and more frequently if problems exist. At every visit to your health care provider, diabetics should remove their shoes and socks for an examination of the feet.