People with Diabetes commonly suffer from a range of different foot problems due to poor circulation to the extremities. However, following a few essential daily, weekly or even seasonal foot care guidelines and maintenance tips can help reduce the presentation and severity of these problems. Keep in mind your Diabetic Foot Problems may differ from other peoples. Be aware of the multiple foot issues that may affect diabetics. Consult your foot doctor the moment you notice any signs and symptoms. This is especially important for wounds or open sores on the feet that fail to heal quickly. Leaving these untreated could result in infection and other more serious complications. Always follow the instructions of your podiatrist (foot doctor) and stay ahead of the problem by discussing some sensible solutions as noted below.
Let’s start with shoes and socks and how they affect foot problems and move on from there.
Socks and Shoes
Shoes
Select and wear shoes that fit your feet well, not to tight – essential for diabetics. Orthopedic shoes designed specifically for people with Diabetes are the best choice but you may want a custom fit in order to get the most comfortable fit. Proper-fitting diabetic shoes should not need walked-in or broken-in but should fit comfortably immediately. Your foot doctor may inform you about Medicare and other medical insurance coverage for diabetic shoes.
Diabetic-Friendly Sneakers. Photo Credit: Footsmart.com
Sandals
Avoid wearing regular type sandals, shoes with straps or open toed shoes that could constrict blood flow to the feet. There are a wide range of diabetic sandals on the market that are designed to protect the feet, provide good ventilation, and increase circulation.
Socks
Socks that are loose, seamless and do not have an elastic band to hold them in place are the best option. Diabetic socks are available and those that have moisture-wicking are the preferred option. Wear diabetic socks and boots in cold weather. It is very important to keep the feet warm and prevent frostbite, which may not be felt easily if your feet are numb.
Tips and Guidelines for Dealing with Diabetic Foot Problems
Be aware of the multiple foot issues that may affect diabetics. Consult your foot doctor the moment you notice any signs and symptoms. This is especially important for wounds or open sores on the feet that fail to heal quickly. Leaving these untreated could result in infection and other more serious complications.
- Good blood sugar management is essential to prevent diabetic foot problems from occurring. Blood sugar spikes and lows can exacerbate the problems and will increase the likelihood of infection which should be avoided at all costs for people with diabetes experiencing foot problems.
- Quit smoking. Smoking negatively impacts blood circulation by constricting the blood vessels and therefore the body’s ability to heal.
- Do not cross the legs while sitting as this restricts blood flow to the feet which increases the risk of diabetic foot problems.
- Electric blankets, hot water bottles, and heating pads are not good for circulation for people with diabetes – avoid using them. Diabetics have decreased sensitivity to heat in their feet. You should always use caution and take steps to test warm water or surfaces with other parts of the body to prevent burns.
- Use lightweight, loose blankets while sleeping. The weight or pressure from a blanket may reduce blood circulation, so some people use down quilts since they are lightweight but warm.
Exercise
Regular exercise will increase blood circulation to the feet and provide multiple overall health benefits. Exercising at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week is the general recommendation. However, people with Diabetes should always consult their doctor to ensure that a specific exercise routine is suitable. It is also important to ensure that you wear the correct diabetic shoes during exercise. The type of exercises you do should not be such that is adds to or complicates existing foot problems. Good shoes should provide support, shock absorption and impact protection. In addition, never exercise if there are ulcers or open wounds on the feet.
A Few Foot Care Tips – Caring for Your Feet
Correct nail care is essential to avoid ingrown toenails and other conditions. Always cut the toenails after a bath or shower because they are the most soft and easiest to trim. Rather than hard and brittle nails that split and crack. Cut in a straight line and do not curve the nail at the edges. A podiatrist can assist if you already have ingrown toenails, are experiencing other nail problems or need advice on how best to maintain the toenails.
Dryness and dry skin on your feet is a common problem for diabetics. Moisturize often and avoid soaking the feet, as this will increase dehydration.
For more information and foot care tips, read our series about caring for diabetic feet and the symptoms associated with diabetic foot problems.
