Putting Your Best Foot Forward: Diabetic Foot Care
Posted on: 15 April 2016
If you are living with diabetes, it is important that you take proper care of your feet. Looking after your feet can increase your comfort as you move around and also help to prevent further complications caused by diabetes, such as loss of feeling. Below are some foot care task you should carry out on a regular basis.
Check Your Feet
Every day you should check your feet for signs of sores, swelling, cuts and infected toenails. The best time to check your feet is in the evening, when you will be able to spot any damage caused in the day. If you have trouble moving or bending in order to check the condition of your feet, you should use a mirror or ask a caregiver or family member to check for you.
Wash Your Feet
You should wash your feet in warm water on a daily basis. Be careful not to soak your feet for an extended period of time, as this can cause dry skin. After you have washed your feet, you should then apply talcum powder to help to keep your feet dry and to prevent infections.
Soft and Smooth
After you have washed your feet, you should apply a thin layer of skin cream or petroleum jelly over your feet to keep the skin soft and smooth. Be careful to avoid getting skin cream or petroleum jelly between your toes, as this can lead to infections.
Corns and Calluses
Corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin that grow on the feet. If you think you have corns or calluses, you should visit a podiatrist for advice. Your doctor may recommend you use a pumice stone after bathing to help to smooth the corns and calluses. You should never attempt to cut or remove corns and calluses yourself, this can cause damage to your foot and lead to infections.
Circulation
If you are living with diabetes, it is important to keep blood flowing through your feet. Two or three times a day, you should wiggle your toes for a few minutes to encourage the blood flow. You should avoid crossing your legs for long periods of time or wearing tight socks or shoes, as this can cut off or limit circulation to your feet.
If you notice any change in the condition of your feet, you should contact a healthcare professional, who will be able assess your feet and offer advice and treatment.
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