Why Foot Care is Important for People with Diabetes
Diabetes can affect your feet in many ways, making foot care essential for maintaining your health and quality of life.
High blood sugar levels can cause nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation, which can lead to serious foot problems. Regular foot checks and proper care can help prevent complications such as infections, ulcers, and even amputations.
Key Foot Care Tips:
1
Check Your Feet Daily
Use a mirror or ask someone to help if you have trouble seeing the bottom of your feet.
Look for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or any unusual changes in your feet.
If you notice anything unusual, discuss with your GP, podiatrist or diabetes educator urgently.
2
Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry
Wash your feet daily with warm (not hot) water and mild soap.
Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between your toes, as moisture can lead to fungal infections.
Moisturise the tops and bottoms of your feet to prevent dry skin that can crack, but avoid applying lotion between your toes.
3
Trim Your Toenails Carefully
Wash your feet daily with warm (not hot) water and mild soap.
Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between your toes, as moisture can lead to fungal infections.
Moisturise the tops and bottoms of your feet to prevent dry skin that can crack, but avoid applying lotion between your toes.
4
Wear Proper Footwear
Choose shoes that fit well, are comfortable, and provide good support.
Avoid tight shoes or shoes with pointed toes that can cause blisters or pressure sores.
Always wear socks made of soft, breathable fabric like cotton. Avoid wearing socks. with tight elastic bands that can restrict circulation.
Consider custom orthotics if recommended by your healthcare provider to help with foot alignment.
5
Always wear shoes or slippers, even when indoors, to protect your feet from injury.
Avoid Walking Barefoot
6
Keeping your blood glucose levels in target range helps improve circulation and prevents nerve damage, reducing the risk of foot complications.
Manage Blood Sugar Levels
7
Watch for Changes in Your Feet
Be aware of signs of infection such as redness, swelling, warmth, or pus.
If you experience numbness, tingling, or pain, raise this with your team at Living Diabetes & Endocrinology, as these may indicate nerve damage.
8
Avoid Smoking
Smoking reduces blood flow to your feet and can worsen circulation problems. If you smoke, ask your GP for resources to help you quit.
9
Schedule Regular Foot Exams
Visit a podiatrist at least once a year for a thorough foot exam. Regular check-ups can help identify problems before they become serious.
10
Know the Signs of Poor Circulation
Symptoms of poor circulation in your feet may include:
– Sharp leg cramps after walking short distances or climbing stairs.
– Foot pain, even at rest or in the early morning
– Cold feet – Reddish-blue skin colour – Cuts that heal slowly
Your team at Living Diabetes & Endocrinology are here to support you