Diabetic foot care is a very important part of diabetes treatment. It helps prevent and treat diabetes-related foot complications, such as diabetic ulcers, peripheral neuropathy, gangrene (dead tissue), and even amputations.
Keeping your feet healthy is easy and takes little time or effort, especially if you follow a few simple rules. Keeping your blood sugar at healthy levels, exercising regularly, and eating a nutritious diet are all important parts of diabetic foot care.
Check your feet daily to look for any signs of redness, swelling, or heat. If you see any of these signs, call your doctor right away.
Wash your feet daily in warm water with mild soap. This will help keep your skin soft and healthy. You may also use a gentle skin cleanser or lotion on your feet to remove dead skin cells and moisturize the skin.
Wear shoes with good support and comfort. This is particularly important if you have arthritis or other conditions that affect your feet. It is also a good idea to wear socks, especially when your feet are cold.
Change your socks frequently, if needed. Don't leave soiled socks on your feet for too long because they can become infected. It is also a good idea to change your socks before you go to bed.
Always take your medications as prescribed by your doctor. If you have trouble remembering to take your medication, ask your doctor for help or a reminder.
Make a habit of wearing socks and footwear that fits well, such as comfortable socks with extra cushioning or shoes with special features designed for people with diabetes. Your feet will thank you!
Avoid using hot water on your feet, as this can cause burns to your skin and can damage the nerves in your feet. If you must use hot water, try to check the temperature with your elbow or a thermometer before putting your feet in it.
Do not walk barefoot, as this can cause pressure on the toes and can lead to injury. It is best to wear shoes with good support and a wide toe box to protect your feet.
Get regular foot examinations from Ankle & Foot Centers of America - Nashville. These exams can detect problems early and help prevent ulcers.
Apply a layer of lotion on your feet when they are dry. Don't put lotion in between your toes or on any other part of your foot that is exposed to fungus. This can encourage fungus to grow.
Practice proper foot hygiene by washing your feet every day and drying them thoroughly. This includes using a moisturizer or methylated spirits between the toes when there is a lot of moisture there.
Inspect your feet and nails regularly to catch any issues before they worsen. The Diabetic Foot Care in Tennessee clinic will recommend a regular foot exam as part of your diabetic care.
It is essential for individuals with diabetes to learn how to take care of their feet. This includes preventing infections, reducing the risk of foot ulcers, and treating any minor foot problems that occur. It is also a good idea to visit your podiatrist for advice, as they are experts in all aspects of foot health and can provide effective treatment options for you. Explore more on this subject by clicking here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foot.