How diabetes can affect your feet

Not many people know that diabetics are also prone to foot problems such as loss of feeling in their feet, changes in the shape of their feet, as well as foot ulcers and sores that do not heal. Diabetes remains the commonest cause of amputations in the world.

How can diabetes affect my feet?

“Most of the foot problems in Diabetics are caused by the combined effects of damage to the nerves of the foot, poor circulation due to narrowed arteries and infection” explains Dr. Forlee of the Diabetic Foot Clinic at Constantiaberg Medi-Clinic. Nerve damage causes abnormal pressure points and decreased feeling, leading to foot ulcers, while poor circulation affects the ability to heal sores and fight infection. 85% of diabetics who eventually undergo an amputation start off with a small foot ulcer.

What can I do to prevent diabetes related foot problems?

“Daily inspection of your feet and a concerted effort to prevent any kind of foot injury is imperative if you want to reduce your risk of developing serious foot conditions,” says Dr. Forlee.

Adhering to the following daily routine will also help to reduce your risk of developing diabetes related foot problems:
Keeping your blood sugar level as close to normal as possible. Drawing up a diabetes plan with the assistance of your health care practitioner will help you to keep your blood sugar under control.
Checking your feet every day for cuts, sores, blisters, bruises, swelling, infected toenails, etc. If a wound on your foot takes longer than a day to heal, don't leave it - make an appointment with your doctor immediately.
Keeping your feet clean by washing (not soaking) your feet in warm (not hot) water. Soaking your feet can cause your skin to dry out which can lead to chapping and cracking of the skin, increasing your risk of developing sores. Remember to always dry your feet well by patting, rather than rubbing them dry, as this will help prevent athlete's foot. Sprinkling talcum powder between your toes will also keep them dry.
Keeping the skin on your feet soft and smooth by applying a thin layer of lotion on your feet will help to prevent chapping and cracking of the skin, thereby reducing your risk of developing sores. Avoid leaving cream between the toes.
Wear socks and shoes at all times, even indoors, to prevent injuries. Investing in proper diabetes socks and footwear is also recommended.
Protect your feet from extreme heat and cold. Protect your feet from sunburn, keep your feet away from heaters and open fires and don't use a hot water bottle to keep your feet warm in bed. It's also not a good idea to use an electric blanket and socks with seams are a major no-no.
Keep the blood flowing to your feet by engaging in regular physical activity, however you should avoid activities such as running and jumping which are hard on the feet. You should also avoid crossing your legs for long periods of time; wearing tight socks or garters; wearing restrictive footwear and smokers should quit as smoking impairs your blood circulation.

Medi-Clinic also recommends annual check-ups with your doctor to assess the level of sensation and pulses in your feet.

References: www.foot.com/info/cond_diabetic_foot.jsp
http://www.surgcare.co.za/E_DiabeticFootclinic.asp

Issued on behalf of: Medi-Clinic