Diabetes and the Importance of Foot Care

Diabetes and the Importance of Foot Care

Foot care for people with diabetes is critically important! Diabetes injures nerves and circulation, limiting pain sensations and arterial blood flow. Feet and lower legs are at high risk for injury or ulcers because of these changes. A person may not feel a wound, increasing the chance of greater harm.

Routine foot care reduces the risk of serious problems. Each of the following steps benefits foot health and alerts you to changes to discuss with your doctor:

1. Wearing shoes and socks that fit well, don’t restrict circulation, and are clean, benefit circulation and limit pressure points.
2. Care for your feet every day, washing them in warm water with mild soap, and drying completely with a soft towel, including between the toes—this is beneficial for circulation and foot hygiene.
3. When a caregiver checks your feet each day for cuts, ingrown nails, red spots, swelling, callouses, and blisters, you can identify a risk before it causes more trouble.
4. Keeping your feet at a comfortable temperature that is not too hot or cold benefits circulation.
5. As part of foot care, remember to promote circulation by keeping your feet elevated and limiting crossed legs.

Call your doctor if you notice any of the injuries listed in item 3, or other changes in the condition of your feet.