Why Is Diabetes Foot Care So Important?

Diabetes is a chronic disease that can cause many disorders in the body, one of which is foot complications. People with diabetes often suffer from calluses, corns, blisters, foot ulcers, infections, etc. In some cases, these foot problems can even result in amputations if proper foot care is not taken.

What Causes Foot Problems in Diabetes?

Foto complications in diabetes can result from diabetes neuropathy, poor blood circulation and a weak immune system. 

• Diabetes Neuropathy: 

High blood sugar levels can damage the nerves and blood vessels in the body, leading to the loss of sensation in your feet. In this case, if you suffer from any wounds, you might remain unaware of them, and these wounds may grow to become infected.    

• Poor Blood Circulation:

People with diabetes are also prone to developing peripheral artery disease (PAD). In this condition, the blood vessels narrow down and obstruct the flow of blood to the limbs. In addition, high blood sugar levels also tend to thicken the blood and impair smooth blood flow to the feet. Poor blood circulation to the feet can affect the body’s ability to heal wounds and lead to infections.    

• Weak Immune System:

High blood sugar levels can also damage the immune system in the body and delay the process of healing wounds. It will also make your body more prone to developing foot ulcers and infections, increasing your risk of getting an amputation.   

Are Amputations Common in Diabetes?

Although not all foot complications lead to amputations, they are still fairly common in people with diabetes. Out of the total amputations that happen every year, 85% are caused due to diabetes. Therefore, doctors often stress the importance of foot care in diabetes. 

Can You Prevent These Foot Complications?

Yes, these foot complications can be easily prevented by taking proper foot care. However, to prevent these foot problems, you also have to control your blood sugar levels. For this, you need to eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly and take your medications on time. It will help slow down the progression of diabetes and prevent diabetes neuropathy, blood circulation problems and immune system damage. 

Foot Care Tips For People With Diabetes

• Check your feet every day at least two times. Examine carefully for wounds, blisters, sores, cuts, etc. 
• If you suffer from any wound, immediately clean it with water and soap and apply an antibiotic cream. It will help prevent the infection. Also, visit your doctor if the wound does not start healing in a day or two.
• Whenever you visit your doctor for regular check-ups, ensure to get your feet checked as well. 
• Exercise every day. It will help improve the blood circulation to your feet and keep your feet healthy.  
• Wash and clean your feet every day, especially after coming from outside. It will help prevent infections.
• Keep your feet dry and moisturised to keep the skin from cracking.
• Look out for corns and calluses, and do not try to remove them yourself. Visit your doctor and get proper treatment. 
• Trim your toenails regularly to avoid any cuts or damage to your skin.
• Always wear comfortable shoes and socks. It will help avoid getting sores and blisters. Also, make sure to avoid walking barefoot if you have diabetes. 
• If you feel cold at night, do not use a heating pad. Instead, wear socks to bed and keep your feet warm.
• Whenever you are sitting, try to keep your feet high. Also, wiggle your toes and feet often to improve blood circulation. 

Takeaway:

If you have diabetes, you must take care of your feet to avoid foot problems. Foot complications in diabetes can be extremely severe and can even lead to amputations. 

References:

1. https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes-foot-care
2. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/library/features/healthy-feet.html
3. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/diabetes-foot-care
4. https://www.foothealthfacts.org/conditions/diabetic-foot-care-guidelines
5. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/preventing-problems/foot-problems
6. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324875
7. https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/diabetes-amputation
8. https://www.diabetes.co.uk/diabetes-and-amputation.html
9. https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes/complications/foot-complications