If you have diabetes, then you are probably aware of the importance of maintaining healthy blood glucose levels. Doing so can help prevent diabetes-related complications such as heart attack, kidney disease, and stroke. In addition, managing your blood sugar levels can also help prevent foot problems, which are common in diabetics, especially those with poorly managed blood sugar levels. Here are some things to consider about diabetic foot care so that you can lower your risk for stasis ulcers and other diabetes-related foot disorders.

The Importance Of Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes can cause peripheral neuropathy in the feet which can cause numbness and tingling sensations and reduced feeling in the feet. Well-managed diabetes may make it less likely to develop peripheral neuropathy, and because of this, it is important that you take care of your feet and see your doctor on a regular basis so that your diabetes is well-monitored and well-managed.

People with poorly managed diabetes may be more likely to develop ulcers on the ankles and soles of their feet, blisters, and blood flow (circulation) problems in their feet. Circulation problems may prevent cuts and other wounds from healing quickly and may also raise the risk of foot infections. Diabetic neuropathy and poor circulation may also raise the risk of gangrene, and in some cases, amputation.

Diabetic Foot Care Management

If you have diabetes, check your feet regularly for any redness, blisters, cuts, inflammation, or sores. If you are unable to examine the soles of your feet, ask someone to help you or simply use a small mirror. If you notice any foot abnormalities or if you have lost sensation in your feet, notify your doctor. Another important part of your diabetic foot care routine should be to trim your toenails properly, in a straight-across manner.

If you cut your toenails at a sharp angle or if they are trimmed too short, you may develop ingrown toenails. If you have trouble trimming your toenails, have your podiatrist trim them for you. In addition to trimming your toenails, your podiatrist will also examine your feet so that potential problems can be detected and treated early.  In addition, never wear ill-fitting shoes because the friction from too-tight or too-loose shoes can cause blisters that may be slow to heal. 

If you have diabetes, see both your primary care physician and a local podiatrist office such as Advanced Podiatry and Wound Care on a regular basis for diabetic foot care. Doing so will help keep your diabetes blood sugar levels within normal limits while keeping your feet as healthy as possible.