Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that affects millions of people around the world. One of the most common complications of diabetes is foot problems. Diabetes can cause nerve damage, poor circulation, and slower healing times.

These issues can lead to foot ulcers, infections, and in the worst cases, amputations. However, with proper foot care, people with diabetes can significantly reduce their risk of foot problems. Here are some practical insights to help people with diabetes take good care of their feet.

Inspect Your Feet Every Day

People with diabetes should inspect their feet every day for cuts, sores, blisters, calluses, redness, swelling, or any other changes. If they have trouble seeing the bottom of their feet, then they should use a mirror or ask someone to help.

It’s important to catch any foot problems early before they become more serious and difficult to treat.

Wear Proper Footwear

People with diabetes should wear shoes that fit well and provide proper support and protection for their feet. They should avoid shoes that are too tight, too loose, or have high heels.

They should also avoid going barefoot, even indoors, to prevent injuries. Socks should be clean and dry, and they should avoid wearing socks with seams or elastic bands that can irritate the skin.

Keep Feet Clean and Dry

People with diabetes should keep their feet clean and dry to prevent infections. They should wash their feet with warm water and mild soap, and then dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.

Moisturizers should be applied to keep the skin soft, but they should avoid putting cream between the toes. Foot soakings are not recommended as they can lead to skin breakdown and infections.

Trim Toenails Carefully

People with diabetes should trim their toenails carefully to avoid cuts or ingrown toenails. They should trim them straight across and file any sharp edges. They should avoid cutting the nails too short as this can lead to infection or ingrown toenails.

If they have trouble trimming their toenails or they have thickened nails, then they should see a podiatrist for help.

Control Blood Sugar

People with diabetes should keep their blood sugar levels under control to prevent or delay complications. High blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage, poor circulation, and slower healing times, which can increase the risk of foot problems.

They should follow a healthy diet plan, exercise regularly, take their medications properly, and test their blood sugar levels regularly as advised by their healthcare provider.

Quit Smoking

People with diabetes who smoke are at higher risk of developing foot problems. Smoking can reduce the blood flow to the feet, weaken the immune system, and delay healing times.

They should quit smoking to protect their feet and improve their overall health.

Attend Regular Check-Ups

People with diabetes should see their healthcare provider regularly for foot check-ups and to manage their diabetes. They should have a foot exam at least once a year, or more often if advised, to detect any problems early.

They should also seek medical attention if they notice any changes in their feet that do not go away or worsen over time. Early intervention is key to preventing foot problems from developing.

Exercise Regularly

People with diabetes should exercise regularly to improve their circulation, strengthen their muscles, and reduce their risk of foot problems.

They should talk to their healthcare provider before starting any exercise program to make sure it is safe for them and suitable for their condition. Suitable exercises vary from person to person and depend on age, fitness level, and health status.

Avoid Extreme Temperatures

People with diabetes should avoid extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, as they can damage their feet. They should avoid soaking their feet in hot water or exposing them to direct heat from heaters or hot pavement.

They should also wear insulated boots or shoes in cold weather to keep their feet warm and protected.

Conclusion

Foot problems are a common complication of diabetes, but they can be prevented or managed with proper foot care.

People with diabetes should inspect their feet every day, wear proper footwear, keep their feet clean and dry, trim their toenails carefully, control their blood sugar, quit smoking, attend regular check-ups, exercise regularly, and avoid extreme temperatures. By following these practical insights, they can significantly reduce their risk of foot problems and enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle.