A huge fraction of diabetics have a foot ulcer as a common complication. A diabetic foot is triggered by the breakdown of skin tissues exposing the inner layers. This condition frequently affects the big toes as well as the ball of your feet. When most people think about diabetes, they only think of the blood sugar problem and forget that the nerve and vessel damage caused by neuropathy can become a problem to your feet.
Inspect Often
Nerve damage is a notorious issue among people with diabetes as it makes it difficult for them to feel if they have sores or cracks on their feet. You must be keen on color changes or visible changes on your feet and take the appropriate measures.
Put on Protective Footwear
You must put on protective footwear if you have diabetes. The shoes that you purchase should have a wider and deeper toe box with excellent coverage from top to bottom. Additionally, the shoes should not have seams on the inside as they can rub on your foot. And that is not all. Your socks should be padded and made of materials that can control moisture like cotton.
Stay Away from Hot Tubs
Avoid stepping into hot bathtubs as this can cause severe damage to your feet. If you are suffering from neuropathy, you will have a challenging time sensing the temperature of water. Hot water burns you or cause blisters and boost your odds of getting infections.
Keep Skin Dry
It’s mandatory that you keep your feet dry at all times otherwise your diabetic feet won’t heal. The space present between your toes is airtight, gets moist, breaks down and might trigger infections. You must ensure that you prevent this from happening by drying your feet thoroughly after cleaning. Also, remember to remove your sweaty shoes or socks immediately to reduce your odds of getting infections. Take advantage of moisturizers to prevent dry and cracked skin.
Avoid Walking Barefoot
Try as much as possible to avoid walking barefoot when you have diabetes. Just like mentioned earlier you should put on protective shoes to protect your feet from injuries as well as infections. When you walk barefoot, then you raise your chances of getting tiny cuts, scrapes, and penetration by sharp objects. HYou might not notice them until they become infected.
Consider Non-impact Aerobics
If you are suffering from diabetes exercise will help you in many ways. However, its worth noting that you should go easy on your feet. Avoid fitness classes and aerobics programs that need you to bounce, jump or leap especially if you are suffering from neuropathy. Instead, you should involve in non-impact aerobics that won’t put much pressure on your diabetic foot.
Diabetic foot infection is a common condition among those who have diabetes. However, with the right care, your foot can heal and save you from lots of pain. Furthermore, you won’t have to part with lots of cash taking care of your foot. Keep the hints as discussed above in mind and keep checking our site for more on diabetic foot care.