News & Insight
Foot Care:
Diabetes and your feet
www.diabetes.ca
Diabetes affects the circulation and immune system, which in turn impairs your body’s ability to heal itself. Over time, diabetes can damage sensory nerves (this as known as “neuropathy”), especially in the hands and feet. As a result, people with diabetes are less likely to feel a foot injury, such as a blister or cut. Unnoticed and untreated, even small foot injuries can quickly become infected, potentially leading to serious complications.
When to see your doctor:
If you have swelling, warmth, redness or pain in your legs or feet, see your doctor right away.
If you have any corns (thick or hard skin on toes), calluses (thick skin on bottom of feet), ingrown toenails, warts or slivers, have them treated by your doctor or foot care specialist (such as a podiatrist, chiropodist or experienced foot care nurse). Do not try to treat them yourself.
Have your bare feet checked by your doctor at least once a year. In addition, ask your doctor to screen you for neuropathy and loss of circulation at least once a year.
Take your socks off at every diabetes related visit to your doctor and ask him or her to inspect your feet.
Best Advice:
DO wear well fitting shoes. They should be supportive, have low heels (less than 5 cm high) and should not rub or pinch. Shop at a reputable store with knowledgeable staff that can professionally fit your shoes.
DO wear socks at night if your feet are cold.
DO elevate your feet when you are sitting.
DO wiggle your toes and move your ankles around for a few minutes several times a day to improve blood flow in your feet and legs.
DO exercises regularly to improve circulation.
DO inspect your feet daily and in particular, feel for skin temperature differences between your feet.
Don’t wear high heels, pointed toes shoes, sandals (open toe or open heel) or worn out shoes.
Don’t wear anything tight around your legs, such as tight socks or knee highs.
Don’t ever go barefoot, even indoors. Consider buying a pair of well-fitting shoes that are just for indoors.
Don’t put hot water bottles of heating pads on your feet.
Don’t cross your legs for long periods of time.
Don’t smoke. Smoking decreases circulation and healing, and significantly increases the risks of amputation.
Don’t have pedicures by non-healthcare professionals.