Living with diabetes can bring unique challenges and responsibilities, especially when it comes to taking good care of your feet. Diabetic conditions reduce circulation in the lower extremities, making foot problems more common.
With proper attention and early intervention, however, you can keep your feet healthy and take preventative measures against potentially serious complications such as ulcerations or in very serious cases, amputation. In this blog post we will take a closer look at how people living with diabetes can best care for their feet.
Monitor blood sugar levels regularly
Having healthy feet is crucial to maintaining mobility and independence. For people living with diabetes, monitoring and regulating blood sugar levels is crucial to preventing foot-related complications. Regularly checking blood sugar levels and making adjustments to insulin if necessary can help prevent nerve damage, which can lead to foot ulcers and other foot-related complications.
By taking simple preventative measures and staying vigilant about your blood sugar levels, you can ensure that your feet remain healthy and strong for years to come.
Check your feet daily for cuts, blisters, or dryness
Our feet are tasked with carrying us through our daily lives, so it’s important to give them the attention they deserve. Checking your feet daily for cuts, blisters, or dryness is a simple habit that can make a big difference in your foot health. Cuts and blisters can become infected and lead to more serious issues, especially for those with diabetes or other conditions that affect circulation. Dryness can cause cracking and discomfort.
By taking a few moments each day to inspect your feet, you can catch any potential problems early and take action to prevent complications. Make foot care a part of your daily routine and your feet will thank you for it.
Wear properly fitting shoes
Choosing the right pair of shoes can have a significant impact on your daily life. Your feet bear the brunt of your body weight so they deserve proper support. Shoes that fit well and provide extra cushioning not only protect your feet from injury but can also reduce pain and discomfort.
Investing in professional shoe fitting with knowledgeable staff can help you find shoes that provide the right level of support for your feet. Opting for proper footwear will improve your overall foot health and make your daily activities more comfortable. It’s worth taking the time and effort to get a professionally fitted pair of shoes! If you need extra comfort, we stock a range of podiatrist-approved Orthotic Insoles that can help.
Exercise regularly
Diabetes is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide, and the risks of its complications cannot be overstated. One simple and effective way to reduce these risks is by exercising regularly. When we exercise, our blood circulation improves, and this is especially true when it comes to our feet. For people with diabetes, proper blood flow to the feet is absolutely crucial, since poor circulation can lead to nerve damage, infections, and other serious complications.
By exercising regularly, we can help reduce these risks, and also improve our physical fitness and overall quality of life. If it’s difficult for you to get out and about, The Foot Gym, is an all-in-one device that allows you to massage your feet, stretch them, give them a workout and strengthen your foot muscles all in one place.
Wear clean socks every day
Clean socks are an essential part of keeping your feet healthy and protected. Wearing the same pair of socks for consecutive days can cause a buildup of bacteria, sweat, and moisture leading to fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. It is recommended to wear clean socks every day.
Choosing socks made from natural fibres such as cotton can help keep your feet dry and prevent any unwanted fungal growth. So, make sure to stock up on clean socks, and don’t forget to opt for natural fabric options to provide maximum comfort and prevent any foot-related issues.
Make sure to wash your feet thoroughly
When it comes to hygiene, it’s important not to overlook your feet. As they carry us through the day, they accumulate dirt, sweat, and bacteria. By washing them daily with mild soap and warm water we can remove any harmful and unpleasant agents that may cause odour or infections. Don’t forget to also dry them well, especially between the toes, to avoid creating a moist environment for fungi to thrive. Regular foot hygiene not only helps maintain good health but also keeps our feet looking and feeling fresh.
If your feet need some extra pampering, we love this Natural Epsom Foot Soak which can help reduce inflammation, increase circulation and ease muscle cramps while also reducing odour and softening the skin.
Wrapping up
Proper foot care is vital for individuals with diabetes, as it can minimise the likelihood of foot complications. By including these practices in your diabetes management plan, you can effectively mitigate the risk of foot-related issues.
Remember, your podiatrist is always available to address any concerns you may have. If you are based on the Gold Coast, we highly recommend our friends at ProMed Podiatry for their holistic approach to foot health.
