Tips for Maintaining Diabetic Foot Health for a Vibrant Lifestyle
If you are diabetic, you likely have a lot on your plate—regularly monitoring blood sugar levels, making informed dietary choices, engaging in physical activity, managing medications, and attending doctor's appointments. With all these responsibilities, foot care often takes a back seat. It doesn’t even cross people’s mind until they develop a severe foot condition. Daily foot care is paramount in preventing complications, including nerve damage.
Dr. Ayesha Wajahat, a UK-certified Podiatrist in Islamabad, emphasizes, "Regardless of whether you've recently been diagnosed with diabetes or appear to be in good health, prioritizing foot health is crucial." Individuals may already grapple with nerve damage or other microvascular diseases without realizing, making them more susceptible to diabetic foot complications. Dr. Ayesha warns, "Even a minor infection can pose a significant risk, as they may not feel the injury."
Below are expert tips from Dr. Ayesha Wajahat to ensure the health and happiness of your diabetic feet for an active lifestyle:
1. Daily Foot Inspection
Regularly inspect your feet for any changes in the skin. Pay attention to cuts, sores, blisters, swelling, calluses, or even minor alterations like redness. This can lead to severe complications. Utilize a mirror or seek assistance from a family member to thoroughly examine your entire foot for any changes in the skin.
2. Daily Foot Cleansing
Prioritize cleanliness by washing your feet in lukewarm, soapy water every day. Avoid hot water to prevent damage to the epidermis. You can use a quality Foot Wash like Footology Diabetic Foot Wash specially formulated for diabetic feet for this purpose. Soak your feet in Diabetic Foot wash for 5 minutes and wash thoroughly dry your feet using a gentle towel or dry air. Make sure no moisture remains to prevent any fungal buildup or infections.
3. Utilize Diabetic Foot Cream
Incorporate a quality Diabetic Foot Cream in your routine to manage diabetic foot conditions. We recommend Footology Diabetic Foot Cream It can take care of your skin, providing the necessary nutrients without damaging the skin. Gently apply and massage the cream on the top and bottom of your feet, avoiding application between the toes to prevent sensitive skin infections. For best foot hygiene, you can use Footology's Diabetic Foot Combo.
4. Always Wear Socks
Never go barefoot. Even if you are going from one room to another, wear socks to avoid injury. Remember not socks are created equal if you are diabetic. Go for socks according to the following criteria:
- White or Light Colored – This can help you spot any drainage or bleeding almost instantly if you get a cut.
- Fit Well – Your socks should not be too loose or too tight.
- Made of Wool or any synthetic fiber – These materials easily absorb and wick away moisture.
- No seam – Socks that feature a seam can be bothersome for some people
- Extra padding at the bottom – Socks with cushions on the bottom are much more comfortable than those without.
- Diabetic or Compression Socks – When unsure, go for diabetic socks. Many big brands offer them at convenience stores.
5. Choose Proper Footwear
Select well-fitting shoes. While online shopping may be convenient, we advise you to get measured in person, try on multiple pairs, walk around to get the feel of the new pair. You can leave some space (about the size of your thumbnail) between your big toe and the shoe to avoid friction.
6. Always Wear Socks with Shoes
Avoid going sockless with shoes, as this can lead to increased friction and susceptibility to fungal infections. Socks help absorb any extra moisture, preventing its buildup in shoes. In the absence of socks, moisture can accumulate in the shoe, leading to a fungal infection or worse.
7. Trim Toenails Carefully
Cut toenails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails. Yau can use a nail file to smooth any rough edges. Leaving out any rough nail edges can lead to accidents. Seek assistance from a family member if you have difficulty seeing or reaching your toenails.
8. Regular Foot Checks During Doctor Visits
In addition to routine foot care, ensure your feet are checked during every doctor visit. Coordination among healthcare professionals can significantly improve outcomes. According to research published by the National Library of Medicine, coordinated care can reduce the risk of amputations by 30% or more. For instance, a joint assessment by your primary healthcare doctor, footcare expert (podiatrist) and an endocrinologist for any skin infections can be more beneficial in the long run. Just make sure they are all on the same page.
9. Maintain Steady Blood Circulation
Keep blood circulation in your feet flowing by incorporating regular exercises, especially if you sit for extended periods. Elevate your feet for some time, wiggle your toes around, and move your legs periodically throughout the day. It will help maintain a steady blood flow throughout the day.
10. Choose Feet-Friendly Activities
Stay active with feet-friendly exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling. But before you start any new activity, consult your doctor to determine the best activities for you and identify any to avoid.
Final Thoughts
Diabetes is manageable through regular medical visits and hygiene maintenance. High-quality Diabetic Foot Care essentials, like Footology Diabetic Foot Combo, also help in preventing skin dryness, itching, or cracking besides keeping foot infections at bay. By addressing any small issues promptly, you can prevent them from escalating into serious, life-threatening problems. Good luck!