Dont Underestimate Your Feet

The lifetime risk of a person with diabetes developing a foot ulcer may be as high as 25%

 

Let’s start by asking ourselves just how often do we check are feet for any potential complications. There are a good amount of diabetics that try to stay ahead of their diabetes with blood glucose testing, insulin, exercising and healthy eating habits.  But feet seems to be last on the list for some.

Feet

Diabetes can hurt your feet in 2 ways:

• High blood sugar damages your nerves, including those in your feet. With damaged nerves, you might not feel pain, heat, or cold. A sore or cut may get worse and become infected without your feeling it
• Diabetes reduces blood flow to your feet. When your feet don’t get enough blood, infections may not heal

Protect your feet by taking extra care of them:

• Have a comprehensive foot exam every year
• Wash your feet in warm water every day and dry them well
• Never go barefoot
• Wear shoes and socks that fit well
• Inspect your feet every day for cuts, bruises, or swelling
• Ask your diabetes care team how you should care for your toenails
• Call your diabetes care team if you injure your feet in any way
• Make sure your diabetes care team checks your feet at every visit

Lifestyle Tips

Some helpful tips for everyday living when being a Diabetic

Quick Guide to Common Diabetic Foot Problems

Wondering about your foot health? Use this quick guide to common foot problems. If you suspect you have a condition mentioned here, contact your health-care provider to discuss treatment options.

Identifying a Foot Problem

For people with diabetes, the feet are a particularly sensitive area–and not just because diabetic neuropathy can make them tender. PWDs often worry about foot complications. The good news is that thanks to better blood glucose control, the number of diabetic foot amputations has significantly decreased. But it’s important to catch foot problems early. Check out these common foot problems. If any look familiar, contact your health-care provider.

How to Give Yourself a Diabetic Foot Exam

How to Check Your Feet

Check your feet weekly if you’ve never had complications. Perform exams daily if you have lost sensation and/or a history of foot wounds.

Limited flexibility and belly flab can make foot exams difficult to do on your own. But you’re not off the hook! Allow a companion or caretaker to help. Here are the steps to give a good foot exam.