drdurai

[drdurai]

How to Take Care of Your Feet While Having Diabetes

People with diabetes must pay special attention to their foot health. High blood sugar levels over time can cause damage to nerves and blood vessels in the feet, leading to a condition known as diabetic foot. This can result in reduced sensation, poor circulation, and slow healing, making the feet more vulnerable to injuries, infections, and even ulcers. Without proper diabetic foot care, these issues can become serious, and in severe cases, amputation might be required. However, with the right precautions, most foot problems can be controlled and prevented.

What Happens to the Feet of a Person with Diabetes?

Diabetes can cause various foot issues due to poor blood circulation and nerve damage, a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. When the nerves in the feet are affected, people may lose sensation, making it hard to notice injuries, wounds, or infections. The lack of sensation means these problems can worsen without detection, leading to complications.

Possible Foot Issues Due to Diabetes

Nerve Damage (Neuropathy): Numbness or tingling in the feet, making it difficult to feel pain or temperature changes.

Poor Circulation: Reduced blood flow to the feet, which slows down the healing of wounds.

Foot Ulcers: Open sores that can develop due to minor cuts or blisters and may become infected.

Infections: Bacteria can enter through wounds, leading to infections that are harder to heal.

Deformities: Conditions like hammertoes or bunions can worsen due to poor foot health.

Can Foot Problems Be Controlled?

Yes, diabetic foot problems can be controlled with early detection and proper diabetes and foot care management. By taking simple steps to protect your feet, you can avoid severe complications. Regular diabetic foot care, attention to hygiene, and proper footwear can go a long way in preventing foot injuries and infections.

Is Amputation Required in All Cases?

No, amputation is not required in all cases of diabetic foot problems. Amputation is only necessary when an infection or ulcer becomes so severe that it threatens the health of the rest of the body. Early identification of the signs, proper treatment, and consistent diabetic foot care can prevent the need for such extreme measures. In many cases, professional care and attention to foot health can resolve issues before they become critical.

How to Take Care of Your Feet

Here are the essential steps for taking care of your feet when living with diabetes:

Every day, take some time to examine your feet for any cuts, wounds, colour change or indications of infection.

Wash your feet regularly and keep them dry, especially between the toes.

Moisturize your feet to prevent dry, cracked skin, but avoid applying lotion between the toes; it might develop fungus.

Trim toenails carefully, straight across, but remember not too short and do not forget to smooth the edges.

Always wear shoes and socks to protect your feet, even inside the house.

Ensure your shoes fit well to avoid rubbing or pressure points.

To lower your risk of injury, do not walk with barefoot.

Protect your feet from extreme temperatures (hot or cold).

Keep your blood sugar levels under control with a proper diet and medication.

Visit the best doctor for diabetes regularly for foot exams.

Dr. Durai's Clinic for Diabetic Foot Care

At Dr. Durai’s Diabetes and Foot Care Clinic, patients with diabetes receive specialized care for their feet. Dr. Durai and his team focus on preventing foot problems by offering personalized treatment, diabetes and foot care plans. They provide services such as custom-made footwear, regular foot checkups, and expert advice on managing diabetes-related foot issues along with diet and lifestyle changes.

Foot care is a crucial part of diabetes management, and Dr. Durai’s clinic ensures that every patient receives comprehensive care to prevent complications. To keep your feet safe and healthy if you have diabetes, think about booking a consultation and personalized foot care plan with Dr. Durai.