Podiatry (foot care) for people with diabetes is one of the most overlooked aspects of diabetes management.
Many people with diabetes are entirely unaware that they need to take special care of their feet and visit a foot specialist at once if problems arise.
Higher levels of blood glucose can damage the nerve endings in many areas of the body and organs, which is why tight blood glucose control is an essential aspect of diabetes care.
Why podiatry is so essential to people with diabetes
- Diabetes causes nerve damage known as peripheral neuropathy
- Diabetes affects the circulation, and poor circulation can affect how the body heals
- People with diabetes are more prone to infection
- Diabetes complications can also affect the feet
- Diabetes can affect the joints and make them stiffer
What happens with poor podiatry?
A variety of foot problems can arise when poor foot care fails to catch issues at an early stage.
These may include:
- Damage to the foot
- Foot ulcers
- Foot infections
- Charcot’s joints
- Amputation
Take Action
If you have diabetes, follow these foot care tips:
- Inspect feet daily. Check your feet and toes every day for cuts, bruises, sores, or changes to the toenails, such as thickening or discoloration.
- Wear thick, soft socks. Avoid socks with seams, which could rub and cause blisters or other skin injuries.
- Walking can keep weight down and improve circulation. Be sure to wear appropriate athletic shoes when exercising.
- Have new shoes properly measured and fitted? Foot size and shape may change over time. Shoes that fit properly are important to those with diabetes.
- Don’t go barefoot. Don’t go without shoes. The risk of cuts and infection is too great for those with diabetes.
- Never try to remove calluses, corns, or warts by yourself.
- Do not ignore, in growing toenails, thorns pricked in the foot etc.
- Over-the-counter products like Corn Cap etc. can damage the skin
- Apply Moisturizer every day! Take care of the foot as you take care of your face
See a podiatrist today. Regular checkups by a podiatrist at-least annually are the best way to ensure that your feet remain healthy. Watch below video for early signs of diabetic foot.
For further details, please contact: 080-49261111, 6745-8111
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