There are an estimated 14 million people in the United
States with diagnosed or undiagnosed diabetes! Many of
these individuals will develop foot or lower leg
complications at some point in their life. This can often
lead to hospitalization. The best treatment for such
conditions is prevention! The following is a list of
important steps in the prevention of diabetic foot problems.
1. Wear comfortable shoes preferably fitted by a foot care
specialist. Shoes should have more depth in the toe box and
a firmer outer sole. Higher heels should be avoided as they
place too much load on the ball of the foot.
2. NEVER walk barefoot or in stocking feet! Diabetic
individuals often will lose sensation in their feet. As a
result, if such an individual would step on a foreign
object such as a splinter, they often have limited ability
to feel it. This will allow the injury to go unnoticed
permitting the possibility of infection to occur. These
infections can lead to more serious complications and often
hospitalization.
3. Wash feet daily and dry thoroughly, especially between
the toes, it is best to use pressure rather than vigorous
rubbing when drying. Excessive dirt and debris especially
between the toes can lead to underlying bacterial and
fungal infections. If you cannot reach your toes, a soft
shower brush can be used for washing.
4. Apply a gently moisturizer to the feet once or twice
daily. Diabetic individuals are prone to dry skin. These
subtle scales and cracks in the skin can server as an
opening for bacteria invasion and lead to skin infections.
A gentle moisturizer to the feet will keep the skin soft
and supple. It is important to avoid applying the
moisturizer between the toes. Excessive moisture between
toes can lead to fungal infections.
5. Thick brittle toenails are often a sign of fungal
infection and should be treated by a physician. Having
toenails trimmed by a trained professional is often a
covered benefit with Medicare and most insurance companies
for people with diabetes and associated conditions.
6. Corns and calluses can be treated at home with the
gentle use of a pumice stone to the affected areas after
bathing. Avoid the use of sharp objects or blades.
Accidental cuts can serve as a source of bacterial
infection and more serious foot complications. Avoid the
use of commercial "corn and callous" removers. These are
often mild acids and can lead to open wounds if not used
properly.
7. Socks should be loosely binding and be comprised of
cotton blend material. Cotton serves to absorb moisture
while other materials such as acrylic will "wick" out
moisture. White socks enable on to visualize if there is
drainage or active bleeding from the feet and therefore are
preferred over colored socks.
8. Inspect your feet daily. Look or open cuts or wounds. If
you have difficulty seeing the bottom of your feet, hold a
mirror underneath the sole for inspection.
9. Avoid extreme temperatures------do not soak feet in hot
water or walk barefooted on hot surfaces. Diabetic
individuals will often have decreased sensation to
temperature changes and scalding injuries can go undetected.
10. Should you develop a wound cleanse the area and apply
topical antibiotic ointment with sterile gauze of band aid.
Consult your family physician or podiatrist immediately if
any signs of redness, swelling, or increased pain.
People with diabetes are at increased risk for skin
breakdown, foot ulceration and infection. A minor cut or
blister can have serious consequences. By taking these
necessary precautions, one can avoid injury and reduce the
risk of serious foot problems.
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http://www.eastberlinpodiatrist.com/
DPM degree Ohio College Of Podiatric Medicine
Private Practice East Berlin Foot & Ankle Center
Board Certified Foot Surgeon By American Board Of Podiatric
Surgery
Fellow American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons
Fellow American Academy of Podiatric Practice Management
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