How to Prevent Diabetic Foot Problems?

Diabetes is a chronic disease that can lead to various complications if not managed properly. One such complication is foot problems, which are unfortunately common among people with diabetes. However, with diligent foot care and blood glucose control, individuals can significantly lower their risk of diabetes-related foot complications. This article will examine how diabetes impacts feet, provide tips for foot care, summarise key prevention strategies, and emphasise the importance of prevention.

How Can Diabetes Affect My Feet?

Over time, diabetes may cause nerve damage resulting in Diabetic Neuropathy leading to:

Tingling and pain:

• Loss of feeling in the feet
• Inability to feel pebbles, blisters, cuts, and sores on the feet
• Impaired wound healing for foot sores and infections

Diabetes may effect blood vessels resulting in:

• Decresead blood supply to feet
• Loss of tissue due to gangrene 

Changes in foot shape such as Charcot's foot, which can cause:

• Redness, warmth, swelling
• Shifting or breaking of foot/toe bones leading to rocker bottom appearance

Ultimately, loss of feeling in the feet coupled with reduced blood supply can lead to an increased risk of foot ulcers/infections and potential amputations. Thus, diligent foot care and blood glucose control are imperative.

How to Prevent Diabetic Foot Problems

​​1. Daily Foot Inspection

Individuals with diabetes are advised to inspect their feet daily, as nerve damage can cause loss of feeling and prevent awareness of foot problems. 

• Use a mirror if unable to view feet directly or request assistance. 
• Check for cuts, sores, swelling, ingrown nails, corns, calluses, warts, or other abnormalities. 
• Cover any blisters or sores with bandages. 

2. Proper Foot Hygiene

• Wash feet with soap and warm, not hot, water daily, being sure to dry thoroughly including between toes. 
• Apply powder to keep the interdigital space dry. 
• Do not cut corns or callus yourself or use medicated pads or liquid removers, which can damage the skin.

3. Toenail Care

• Trim toenails straight across after washing feet. 
• Avoid rounding edges or cutting skin. 
• If unable to trim their own nails, request podiatric assistance.

4. Moisturizing and Protection

• Apply lotion or cream to the tops and bottoms of feet, excluding between toes. 
• Wear shoes and socks at all times to avoid injury, and check the shoes for any sharp objects or stones before wearing
• Select properly padded socks and well-fitted shoes that accommodate any foot conditions. 
• Gradually break in new shoes.

5. Thermal Protection

• Take precautions to protect your feet from heat sources and burns. 
• Wear shoes or diabetic sandals both indoors & outdoors, keep your feet away from direct heat, and avoid placing heating pads or hot water bottles on your feet. 
• Avoid walking barefoot.
• For cold feet, try wearing a pair of socks before going to bed. 

6. Circulation Improvement

• Elevate feet when sitting and wiggle toes periodically to enhance blood flow. 
• Do not wear constrictive socks or hosiery. 
• Engage in feet-friendly physical activity like cycling whenever possible. 
• Consider quitting smoking to improve circulation.

7. Professional Foot Care

• Get your feet examined at every medical appointment and receive a thorough podiatric evaluation annually. 
• Seek treatment for any foot deformities or conditions impacting sensation or circulation. 
• Discuss appropriate foot care with healthcare providers.

Conclusion

Diabetes can increase the risk of serious foot complications if preventive care is not followed. However, being diligent about daily foot care and working closely with your healthcare team can significantly lower your chances of diabetes-related foot problems. 

It is vital to check your feet regularly, practise proper hygiene, wear appropriate footwear, get regular podiatric check-ups, manage your blood glucose levels, and take other preventive measures as recommended by your doctor. With accurate prevention efforts, most people with diabetes can avoid major foot complications and maintain healthy feet.