Diabetes and The Foot
Diabetes and Foot Health: Protect Your Feet with Regular Care
Diabetes is a condition that affects the whole body, and one area it significantly impacts is your feet. Managing your blood sugar levels is key to preventing complications, but it’s also important to understand the specific effects diabetes can have on your feet.
How Diabetes Affects Your Feet and Body
Diabetes disrupts the body’s ability to absorb glucose, leading to high levels of glucose in the bloodstream. This can damage vital organs and systems, including the circulatory and nervous systems in your feet. As a result, circulation and sensation are often reduced, leaving your feet vulnerable to infections and injuries.
The combination of poor circulation and diminished feeling in the feet means that even small cuts or wounds may go unnoticed, making them harder to treat. In the worst cases, untreated foot issues can lead to serious complications, including amputation.
Common Foot Problems Caused by Diabetes
- Dry skin around the toes
- Tingling or numbness in the feet
- Poor circulation, reducing oxygen and nutrients to foot tissues
- Frequent infections due to impaired healing
- Foot deformities, like hammertoes or bunions
- Increased risk of ulcers and sores that won’t heal properly
Managing Foot Health with Diabetes
Regular foot assessments by a podiatrist are crucial for diabetics to prevent complications. During your check-up, the podiatrist will assess:
- Nerve function to check for numbness or reduced sensation
- Blood flow to your feet to monitor circulation
- Skin and nail health for infections or issues like corns and calluses
- Foot movement and joint function to detect problems with walking or posture
What to Expect During Your Diabetes Foot Check A diabetes foot check typically includes:
- Nerve Review: Testing sensation and muscle function.
- Blood Flow Test: Using tools like a Doppler ultrasound to assess circulation.
- Skin and Nail Check: Examining for cuts, calluses, or infections.
- Foot Shape and Movement Review: Assessing foot function and footwear.
How Podiatrists Help
While there is no cure for diabetic foot complications, podiatrists can help by providing:
- Custom orthotics to improve foot function and prevent injuries
- Braces or supports to stabilize the feet and reduce pressure
- Footwear advice to ensure you wear shoes that protect your feet
- Infection prevention and wound care for cuts or ulcers
- Muscle strengthening exercises to maintain foot and leg strength
Simple Foot Care Tips for Diabetics
Maintaining proper foot health is essential for managing diabetes. Here are some easy steps to take at home:
- Wash and dry your feet thoroughly every day, especially between your toes.
- Inspect your feet for any cuts, blisters, or redness.
- Wear shoes that fit properly and avoid walking barefoot.
- Keep toenails trimmed straight across to prevent ingrown nails.
- Moisturize your feet, but avoid moisturizing between the toes to prevent fungal infections.
- Keep your feet away from direct heat sources like heaters or hot water bottles.
The Importance of Regular Foot Care
Seeing your podiatrist for regular foot assessments is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of severe complications, including amputations. Diabetes-related foot issues are serious, but with early intervention and good care, you can maintain healthy feet and avoid painful or debilitating complications.
If you have diabetes, don’t wait for a problem to arise. Schedule your annual diabetes foot check today and take control of your foot health!
Book Your Appointment with Leading Health Podiatry Today
Let us help you manage your diabetes-related foot health. Our experienced podiatrists offer comprehensive foot care services tailored to those with diabetes to keep your feet safe and healthy.