Diabetic Footcare

Long term or poorly controlled diabetics are more prone to circulation and sensation issues affecting their extremities, especially their feet. Worst case scenario, a diabetic injures their foot, doesn’t even realise, then complications to the would arise due to poor blood flow to the area, ie infections or ulcers.

However, this can be largely prevented by following some simple tips:

• Control your diabetes / blood sugar levels well – delays circulation and neuropathy issues

• Regular exercise to encourage blood flow to the feet

• Inspect your feet daily – Look for cuts, sores, swelling, or changes in skin colour. Even small wounds can become serious if left untreated.

• Wash and dry your feet properly – Use warm water (not hot) and mild soap. Dry thoroughly, especially between your toes, to prevent infections.

• Moisturize your feet – Apply lotion to keep the skin hydrated, but avoid the spaces between your toes to prevent fungal infections.

• Trim toenails carefully – Cut relatively straight across and avoid digging too deep into the corners to prevent ingrown nails. Use clean instruments.

• Wear proper footwear – Choose well-fitting shoes with good support and avoid tight or high-heeled shoes that may cause pressure points.

• Use quality socks or stockings to reduce friction

• Avoid walking barefoot – Protect your feet from cuts and injuries by always wearing shoes, especially outdoors.

  
  

Annual check-ups from a podiatrist are recommended.

If you cannot maintain your feet to a satisfactory manner, we suggest you see a podiatrist regularly for specialized foot care and early detection of issues. The local nail salon is not recommended for diabetics due to the increased risk of infection.

Diabetic footwear should fit well and be comfortable. Obviously. Make sure especially the toe box area is deep and wide enough. The interior is soft and seamless. Insoles are cushioned. The upper is breathable, has some stretch, with adjustable laces/Velcro.  These features prevent pressure spots, irritation or friction, restricting circulation, slippage, blisters.  Ideally, the shoe offers support and shock absorption to reduce strain on the feet.

Those with sensation issues should use socks or hosiery and wear new shoes in gradually, inspecting their feet at regular intervals initially to monitor pressure areas. You can use foam or gel pads to protect prominent bony areas.

Injuries: those suffering from diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, overweight, etc are more prone to tendinopathies. Especially as a result of a poor diet, alcohol or smoking.  High blood glucose levels and raised inflammatory markers can affect collagen production / organisation and lead to chronic inflammation and degeneration, affecting the tendon’s health and ability to heal.  Reduced circulation to the area doesn’t help either.

Rehabilitation from plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis requires off loading the injured tissues (footwear, orthoses), managing activity levels and gradually progressing strengthening exercises. Diabetics will also benefit from addressing their diet and lifestyle.

The better you control your diabetes the less complications you’ll experience.

Doppler check of circulation in a diabetic foot