Health Issues Common In Women

3 Ways to Reduce Your Risk for Diabetic Foot Ulcers

9 December 2014 by admin

If you have uncontrolled or long-standing diabetes, you may be at risk for developing diabetic foot ulcers. In addition to working with your physician to manage your diabetes, there are certain things you can do at home to help prevent sores on your feet related to high blood sugar. Here are three ways to reduce your risk for diabetic foot ulcers:

Always Wear Shoes and Socks

Because diabetes can lead to damage to the blood vessels and nerves in your feet, reduced feelings and numbness can develop. As a result, you may not notice if you injure your foot or get a blister, and because of this, a small injury may get worse and progress into an ulcer or sore.

You should always wear proper-fitting and comfortable shoes to help protect your feet. If your shoes are too tight you might not feel the discomfort and may develop a sore when your foot rubs against the shoe. Wear dry, clean socks with your shoes every day as they will provide addition protection for your feet.

Visual Inspection

Diabetics should perform a visual inspection of their feet every day. This includes checking the soles, tops, heels and sides of their feet, as well as in-between their toes. While checking your feet, look for sores or blisters, warmth, redness or tenderness, cracked or dry skin and cuts and bruises.

If you are unable to effectively check your feet because of visual or mobility problems, ask someone to do it for you, or visit your doctor. If you notice any abnormalities during your foot check, never attempt treating them yourself.

See a Podiatrist

Visit a podiatrist such as Mitchell Foot & Ankle to learn how to properly trim your toenails to reduce the risk of an injury that may lead to an ulcer on your toe. Your foot doctor will recommend that you soak your feet in warm water prior to trimming your nails to help soften them. You will also be instructed to cut your nails straight across, as curved toenails may be more prone to become ingrown. If you are unable to trim your toenails, your podiatrist will do it for you.

If you have diabetes, visit a foot clinic where a podiatrist can properly examine your feet and recommend an effective treatment plan if you have any sores. The sooner foot problems are recognized and treated, the less likely you are to develop diabetic foot ulcers.

Share

Search