How To Care For Your Feet If You Have Diabetes

Foot problems are a common complication for people with diabetes. If you have diabetes, foot care will be an important part of your health routine; even small actions can help you avoid problems, and spot issues quickly if they do arise.

At 13th Beach Health Services, we diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions that affect the feet, ankles, and lower limbs, including complications experienced with diabetes. Let’s explore the importance of foot care and key routines we recommend.

For personalised advice, contact our team at 13th Beach Health Services today.

Why Foot Care Is Important for People With Diabetes

There are two main ways that diabetes affects foot health; one relating to blood circulation and the other to nerve damage.

Diabetes occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. This has a number of impacts, including arteries getting clogged up and then hardening or narrowing. The result is poor blood flow or circulation to different areas including your feet. When your blood flow is compromised, it may take longer for cuts and sores to heal.

People with diabetes may also have damaged nerves, which can lead to pain, numbness or a lack of sensitivity in the feet. If this happens, minor cuts, sores or blisters may not be felt, and there is a higher risk of ulcers developing.

If you have diabetes, it’s important to be proactive about your foot care and to seek support on any issues that may be on your mind. If left untreated, smaller complaints can become significant complications.

How To Care for Your Feet

Fortunately, there are several easy things you can do to take care of your feet at home and avoid major problems.

Improve Your Blood Circulation

There are a number of ways people with diabetes can improve their blood circulation. A key part of diabetes management is keeping blood glucose levels within a healthy range. It’s also advisable to avoid smoking, which can cause the narrowing of blood vessels, and to exercise daily, which keeps blood flowing throughout the body.

Check Your Feet Daily

We recommend inspecting your feet every day for cuts, sores, swelling, redness, or heat and other signs of infection. If you have trouble seeing every area of your foot, including the bottom, use a hand mirror or enlist your partner or a family member for help.

Wash Your Feet and Dry Them Well

Another daily routine should be washing your feet. The trick is to ensure they are squeaky clean, without soaking them for extended periods and creating dryness or other issues. We recommend using warm water and soap, and gently drying your feet, especially between your toes. Excess moisture in this area can lead to fungal infections.

Moisturise, But Avoid Between the Toes

After you have cleaned your feet, or at any other time, make sure your feet are nicely moisturised and hydrated. Again, it’s important to avoid excess moisture. Apply moisturiser or sorbolene cream across your feet, particularly on cracked heels, but avoid between the toes.

Buy Supportive Footwear

Your selection of footwear is important. Try not to rush the process; if possible get your feet measured in-store, and try on shoes before purchasing them. Your new shoes should fit well, be comfortable, provide support, and be empty inside – as foreign objects can cause irritation. Overall it’s best to avoid high heels, or shoes with an open or narrow toe.

Avoid Walking Barefoot

One key reason footwear is important is the no-barefoot rule. Avoid walking barefoot outdoors, and even indoors where possible, as going without shoes can increase your risk of injury. This is especially the case if you have nerve damage and reduced sensation in your feet.

Keep Your Toenails Trimmed

We also recommend trimming your toenails on a regular basis. It’s best to keep them on the shorter side, and free of any rough or sharp edges. Neatly trimmed toenails can help prevent ingrown toenails, which can be a significant problem if your blood circulation is compromised.

Avoid Extreme Heat or Cold

Excessive temperatures can be particularly problematic for people with diabetes. You can protect your feet from extreme temperatures, including heat or cold, in a number of ways. When indoors, it’s a good idea to check the temperature of your bath water before you slide in, and to keep a distance from heaters. If you’re venturing outside, wear socks to keep your feet warm and supportive shoes to protect your feet from hot surfaces.

Visit a Podiatrist Regularly

Podiatrists assess, diagnose and treat a wide range of foot, ankle and lower leg conditions, including those caused or affected by diabetes. If you have diabetes, we recommend seeing a podiatrist at least once a year, if not more frequently. They can provide advice and treatment for a range of issues, including reduced feeling in the feet, poor blood circulation, or skin issues you may have an increased risk of, such as corns, calluses and warts.

Seek Out Medical Attention Where Needed

If you have a cut or injury on your feet that just isn’t healing, or you notice any wounds, sores, swelling, discolouration, or other signs of infection – it’s time to seek out professional advice. Get onto this as quickly as possible, as early intervention is key. Your podiatrist or a GP will be able to assist you.

Book a Podiatry Assessment Today

Do you or a loved one have diabetes, and you’re noticing blood circulation issues, or reduced feeling in the feet? Would you simply like some foot care advice and a little extra peace of mind? Our experienced team can help you. Call or make an appointment to have your questions answered.

 

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