Reprinted Articles

Roughly a fifth of hospitalized diabetics suffer from foot related problems. A diabetic’s foot can be the cause of other major cases. Atherosclerosis is an example of blood flow problem in the legs that can make a diabetic’s foot susceptible to injuries and infections.

Neuropathy, which causes impairment to the nerves in the foot, can almost make it numb. If ignored this may cause another impairment that will lead to infection and skin breakdown.

Close monitoring of a diabetic’s foot would lessen the risks of possible complications. It’s best practice to notify a doctor when there are observed changes and abnormally slower healing pace for open wounds on the foot.

If the skin of the foot becomes dry, cracked, and starts to peel, this poses another problem. These are symptoms that the nerves that control the foot’s sweating have been damaged. When the skin cracks and peels, it gives bacteria an opening to get into the body and create havoc with infection. Using petroleum based lotions or salves helps moisturize the foot, and prevents the skin from cracking. However, avoid putting lotion between the toes because excess moisture can cause an infection.

With the aid of a pumice stone, you can soften calluses. If this doesn’t work, consult a doctor to prevent it from being hard and thick, which leads to ulcer.

Open sores or ulcers often develop around the bottom of the big toe and at the ball of the foot. Sometimes, it’s because of wearing shoes that are too tight. It also develops on the sides, top or heel of the foot. Redness is a symptom of skin breakdown, and diabetics should watch for it since ulcers can cause infections that may lead to lower limb amputations. There are cases wherein a diabetic wears a cast to lessen the pressure on the foot to avoid open sores from getting bigger or the infection from increasing.

Here are some tips on how to prevent the aforementioned issues from taking place: Monitor your sugar level. Stay fit. The legs and feet are strained due to the extra weight you may have. It would also be a little difficult to check your foot closely if you have a big bulge. Regularly inspect your feet or ask assistance from someone. Use smooth socks and not bunched when put on. Inspect shoes for foreign objects; the effects of the smallest obstruction can lead to catastrophic effects. Always wear something to protect your feet. You might step on something and cause open wounds. Check the temperature of the water bath with your hands first. If there are problems with the nerves on your feet, you won’t be able to feel if you’re already burning or not. Do not use heating pads on the feet. Make sure that after taking a bath your feet are dried well, especially between the toes. Quit smoking. Poor blood circulation, caused by smoking, increases the risk of nerve damage and slow healing.

A diabetic with poor senses in the foot should let a podiatrist trim toenails, trim calluses, and remove corns, to eliminate the risk of infection.

To avoid being hospitalized for foot related problems, possibly even amputation of the lower limb, a diabetic must take care of their feet and watch them closely for any signs of change.

Last 5 posts by Julia Hanf

• Diabetes - Minimizing Effects of Diabetes - July 16th, 2008
• Diabetes and Exercise - June 5th, 2008
• The Winning Solution - June 4th, 2008
• Clarity of Cause, Clear as Mud - May 25th, 2008
• 24 Hour Insulin - May 22nd, 2008

Tags: Diabetes