The time of year is coming when you or those you know are going to start pulling out the flip-flops and swimwear, gearing up for time by the pool or the sea. However, if you have diabetes, you need to take a few moments to think about the safety of your feet before you put your toes into that sand and surf.
As someone diagnosed with diabetes, you’re likely to be at a heightened risk of infection or injury to your feet, given the reduction in blood flow and any present nerve damage. The ADA, or American Diabetes Association, published an estimate that as many as one in five diabetics wind up seeking hospital-level care for problems and injuries with their feet. Given these increased risks, even a small injury might turn into a much larger complication. For instance, you might develop a blister or sore that leads to infection, putting you at a higher risk of losing your toe, foot, or even the entire leg.
Fortunately, there are a number of useful foot care tips for those with diabetes so they can help keep their toes and feet healthy and safe during the warm weather, and even all year long.
Routines Matter
You should check your feet every day for things like soreness, cuts, blisters, swelling, and redness. If you’re not able to see the bottoms of your feet, ask someone to give you help or just use a mirror.
Wash your feet every day. Dry them out thoroughly, particularly between your toes.
Try to be more active. Walking frequently is very useful. Talk to your medical provider about how much exercise is appropriate for you.
Let a professional trim your toenails unless you’re able to see them adequately and can physically reach them. If you’re able to both reach and see your toenails, make sure you trim them straight across and don’t cut them too short. File your edges with a nail file or emery board.
If you use lotions on your feet, apply only a thin coat, taking care to avoid the areas between your toes.
Visit a podiatrist or foot care specialist annually or every six months to get a thorough exam.
Proper Footwear And Use
Never go out and walk barefoot, even on a beach.
You should wear shoes that are comfortable, fit well, and give your feet protection.
Talk to your medical provider about good diabetic show coverage. If your shoes fit properly, you’ll minimize your risk of complications. Vionic Tide sandals are renowned as a comfortable piece of footwear for diabetics.
Check the insides of your shoes before you wear them. Ensure the linings are smooth and you don’t have any objects inside.
Prevention Matters
Don’t let your feet bottoms experience extreme temperatures. Protect them from both cold and hot temperatures. Never put either of your feet into any hot water. Also, test your water before putting any feet into it just like you would if you were bathing a baby. Don’t use a heating pad, electric blanket, or even a hot water bottle. It is, unfortunately, possible to burn your feet and not actually realize it
Don’t cross your legs. When you are seated, move your feet around, wiggling your toes. Elevate your feet when you sit if you’re prone to your feet and/or ankles swelling.
Don’t smoke, since this runs up your risk of longer-term complications.
If you wind up developing ingrown nails, calluses, corns, or other worrisome issues related to your foot care, seek out the assistance of a relevant specialist or a podiatrist.
The most important thing you can do is manage your actual diabetes. Work alongside your medical team to keep both your A1c and blood glucose within the established limits or range safe for you personally.
