Millions of people worldwide are affected by diabetes, and studies show that 25% of individuals with diabetes will experience a foot-related complication during their lifetime. These issues can range from minor concerns to more serious conditions, highlighting the crucial role foot care plays in diabetes management.
At Lake Erie Podiatry, we treat a range of foot issues, including ingrown nails, fungal infections, heel pain, warts, bunions, hammertoes, sports injuries, and diabetic foot ulcers. Based in Pennsylvania, our team is dedicated to keeping your feet healthy and pain-free with personalized care. Ready to improve your foot health? Contact us to book an appointment today.
Read on to discover actionable tips and guidance for integrating foot care into your daily diabetes management routine.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes can seriously affect foot health due to its impact on blood vessels, circulation, and nerve function. High blood glucose levels, often called hyperglycemia, can reduce blood flow to the feet, slowing healing and increasing the risk of complications like infections. Diabetic neuropathy—nerve damage caused by diabetes—can lead to a loss of sensation, making it harder to detect injuries or pressure points. Combined with other health conditions like heart disease, these issues can significantly impact overall well-being if left unchecked.
Common Foot Problems for Diabetics:
- Foot ulcers: Caused by unnoticed injuries or pressure points that fail to heal due to poor circulation and high blood sugar levels.
- Fungal infections: Issues like athlete's foot and toenail fungus thrive with moisture and dry skin. Keeping feet clean and dry helps reduce these risks.
- Neuropathy-related pain and numbness: Makes it harder to notice foot injuries.
- Corns, cracked heels, and calluses: Can develop into infections or open wounds if not treated properly. Using a pumice stone can help treat corns and prevent further complications.
Diabetic Feet Inspection
Poor Circulation
Poor circulation, often caused by high blood sugar or other health conditions, can severely affect blood flow to the feet. This slows the healing process for cuts, sores, or injuries and increases the risk of infections. Symptoms of poor circulation include cold feet, pale or discolored skin, and weak pulses. Keeping your feet warm and ensuring regular monitoring can help prevent serious complications.
Step-by-Step Guide to Inspecting Your Feet Regularly
- Check for visible injuries: Look for cuts, blisters, redness, cracked heels, or swelling, even between toes and around toenails.
- Use a mirror or get help: If it's hard to see your soles, use a mirror or ask someone else.
- Notice changes: Look for signs of poor circulation, such as unusual temperature, texture changes, or discoloration.
- Toenails trimmed safely: Keep toenails trimmed straight across to prevent ingrown toenails that could lead to infections.
Hygiene Tips for Clean Feet
- Wash daily: Use warm water (not hot) and mild soap to keep feet clean while avoiding irritation.
- Dry thoroughly: Pat feet dry, especially between toes, to prevent fungal infections.
- Moisturize carefully: Avoid putting lotion between toes to reduce infection risks.
Incorporating these steps, along with wearing socks that wick moisture and wearing well-fitting shoes, helps prevent injuries and infections. Avoid harsh over-the-counter treatments for foot issues, as they may worsen injuries.
Footwear Recommendations for Diabetics
Features to Look for in Diabetic Shoes
- Proper fit: Choose well-fitting shoes with extra cushioning and enough room to prevent pressure points or rubbing.
- Cushioning and stability: Look for therapeutic shoes or insoles to support weak arches and reduce foot pain.
- Breathable materials: Shoes made from mesh or leather wick moisture, keeping feet dry.
- Seamless interiors: Prevent irritation by avoiding seams that might rub against sensitive skin.
- Durable outsoles: Slip-resistant soles provide stability and reduce the risk of injuries.
Always wear regular shoes or moisture-wicking socks to protect your feet. Walking barefoot increases the risk of cuts or infections. Choosing the right footwear is essential for promoting proper blood flow and managing diabetes effectively.
When to Consult a Podiatrist
If you experience persistent foot pain, swelling, redness, or injuries that don’t heal, consult a podiatrist or healthcare provider immediately. These could indicate a medical emergency, such as Charcot foot, requiring urgent care.
Benefits of Preventative Podiatry Care:
- Early detection: Identifying poor blood flow, infections, or other issues early reduces risks.
- Personalized advice: Care tailored to your blood sugar levels and diabetes management.
- Improved circulation: Supports healthy blood vessels and keeps feet warm.
- Infection prevention: Regular care helps avoid small issues escalating into complications.
- Mobility support: Healthy feet help you stay active, supporting efforts to lose weight and maintain overall health.
Managing diabetes involves more than just foot care. Following a diabetes meal plan, reducing calories to lose weight, and taking diabetes medicine as prescribed are all important. Monitoring your blood sugar level regularly and staying within your target range helps reduce the impact of hyperglycemia, improving overall health and reducing the risk of foot complications.
Start Your Journey to Comfortable Feet
Proactive foot care is essential for preventing complications and maintaining mobility, especially for those with specific concerns like diabetes. At Lake Erie Podiatry, we’re here to provide expert care tailored to your needs.
Don’t wait until an issue arises—schedule your appointment with Lake Erie Podiatry today. Our specialized podiatry services are designed to keep your feet healthy and your life moving. Call us or book online now to take the first step toward optimal foot health!
