Easy Care For Diabetic Foot
June 13, 2009
People suffering from diabetes are extremely prone to foot problem. Diabetic foot problems arise for two reasons. Firstly, the blood circulation to the feet slackens owing to diabetes.
This makes it difficult for nutrients, oxygen and antibiotics to reach the site of any wound or sore, which might occur on the foot. Healing of wounds and sores is quite difficult in diabetic patients due to the slow blood circulation.
Secondly, if high blood sugar level persists for a long time, the nerves present on the feet would be damaged. This causes loss of sensation or numbness of the feet.
Nerve damage, which is known as peripheral neuropathy, makes it impossible for a person to feel the sensation of pain when wounded. Cuts, which go unnoticed and ignored owing to peripheral neuropathy, causes severe feet infections, which can also cause amputation of a toe or even the foot.
Therefore, diabetic patients should be extremely careful about their feet.
Regular check: Everyday check your feet for signs of cuts, sores and blisters. You should check between toes, for signs of minor injury or sore.
Cleanliness: Regularly wash both your feet with lukewarm water. Check the water temperature with your hand to see that it is not hot. Hot water might be harmful for diabetic feet. Do not immerse your feet in warm water for more than two to three minutes. Completely dry your feet with a soft towel. Make sure that no water remains between the toes. Trim your toe nails regularly.
Shoes: Do not walk on bare feet. Always wear good fitted shoes. Your shoes should not be tight. It should not have any sharp edges. Always wear good quality cotton socks with your shoes. You should always choose thick socks, which besides protecting your feet, acts as a cushion.
Exercise: While exercising, choose exercises that produce least pressure on your feet. Swimming, yoga, cycling are preferable for diabetes patients.
Comments
Got something to say? Join the conversation and leave a comment below.