Foot Care for Diabetics: Tips for Prevention & Health

Living with diabetes requires careful management to prevent complications, and one of the most critical areas to monitor is foot health. Diabetic individuals are prone to foot issues due to poor circulation and nerve damage, which can lead to severe complications if not managed properly. Here, we offer a comprehensive guide on maintaining healthy feet and preventing complications so your feet can continue being healthy and comfortable. 

Understanding the Risks for Diabetics

People with diabetes often experience reduced blood flow to their extremities, particularly the feet. This reduced circulation can lead to slower healing times and increase the risk of infections. Additionally, nerve damage, or neuropathy, is common in diabetics, leading to a loss of sensation in the feet. This means minor injuries or infections can go unnoticed and develop into serious problems.

Daily Foot Care Routine

Establishing a daily foot care routine is crucial for preventing complications:

1. Daily Inspection:

• Check your feet daily for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or any signs of infection. Use a mirror if necessary to inspect the soles.
• Pay attention to areas between the toes where moisture can lead to fungal infections.

2. Washing and Moisturising:

• Wash your feet daily with lukewarm water and mild soap. Avoid soaking your feet for extended periods as this can dry out your skin.
• Thoroughly dry your feet, especially between the toes, to prevent fungal infections.
• Apply a moisturising cream like Dermal Therapy’s Heel Balm to keep your skin hydrated and reduce itching. This cream is specially formulated to relieve even the most cracked heels and is suitable for sensitive diabetic skin.

3. Nail Care:

• Trim your toenails straight across and file the edges. Avoid cutting too short to prevent ingrown toenails, which can lead to infections.
• If you have difficulty trimming your nails, consider seeking professional help from a podiatrist.

Proper Footwear

Wearing the right footwear is essential to protect diabetic feet from injury:

• Choose Well-Fitting Shoes:
  • Select shoes that provide ample room for your toes and avoid tight-fitting footwear. Shoes should offer good support and cushioning.
  • Avoid high heels and open-toed shoes, which can increase the risk of injury.

• Socks:
  • Wear socks made from moisture-wicking materials to keep your feet dry. Avoid tight socks that can restrict circulation.
  • Consider specialised diabetic socks that provide extra cushioning and reduce pressure points.

Managing Foot Skin Conditions for Diabetics

Diabetics are prone to various skin conditions, including dry skin and fungal infections. Proper management is vital to prevent complications:

Dry Skin:

• Use a foot cream like regularly to keep your skin moisturised and reduce the risk of cracks and fissures. This can prevent infections from entering through broken skin.

Fungal Infections:

• Keep your feet clean and dry. Change socks daily and avoid walking barefoot in public areas to reduce the risk of fungal infections.
• Use antifungal powders or creams like Dermal Therapy’s Fungistop Antifungal Cream.

When to Seek Professional Help

Even with diligent care, it is crucial to seek professional help if you notice any signs of complications. If you develop a sore or ulcer that does not heal, seek medical attention as early intervention can prevent serious complications. Any changes in the colour or temperature of your feet should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, as these can be signs of poor circulation or infection. Additionally, unexplained pain or swelling in your feet should be assessed to rule out underlying issues such as infections or fractures.

Promoting Overall Foot Health

Maintaining overall foot health involves more than just daily care. Here are some additional tips:

• Regular Check-Ups:
  • Schedule regular visits with a podiatrist who specialises in diabetic foot care. They can help manage any existing issues and provide preventative care.
• Control Blood Sugar Levels:
  • Keeping your blood sugar levels within the target range is crucial for overall health and can significantly reduce the risk of foot complications.
• Exercise:
  • Engage in regular, low-impact exercises like walking or swimming to improve circulation. Always wear appropriate footwear to protect your feet during activities.

Elevate your Foot Care with Dermal Therapy

Diabetic foot care is essential to prevent complications and maintain overall health. By following a diligent daily routine, wearing proper footwear, and using appropriate products you can keep your feet healthy. Discover our full footcare range to find the right solution for your specific needs and keep your feet feeling fresh. 

References

• Diabetes preventing complications – foot care
• Better Health Diabetes Foot Care
• Promotion of foot health in diabetes