Foot Care For Diabetes - A Simple Guideline

Here's a look at the "Dos and Don'ts" of foot care for diabetes. Giving more attention to the health of the feet is necessary, because many diabetics have decreased sensation in the feet.
You may have decreased sensation in your hands, too, but you are more likely to notice an injury on your hand. Injuries on the feet may be hidden by socks and shoes. So, the first step is to examine your feet every day.
You may need a mirror to thoroughly examine the bottom of your feet. You are looking for blisters, corns, calluses, bunions or abrasions.
Any redness or swelling should be treated by gently cleaning the area, using an antibiotic ointment and then covering with a bandage. Change the bandage at least twice a day. If signs of infection are present, contact your doctor.




Whether or not you have had problems in the past, you should have a yearly foot exam. Research has shown that patients that see a podiatrist have fewer deep ulcers. Preventing deep ulcers is the primary concern in home foot care for diabetes, because unhealed ulcers may require amputation.
One of the big "Don'ts" is what doctors call bathroom surgery. Bathroom surgery is the use of a razorblade, scissors or other tools to cut off a corn or callus. Even trimming the toenails should be done cautiously and carefully to avoid ingrown nails. Ingrown nails are cause for a visit to the doctor.
Studies indicate that footwear designed specifically for diabetics may help prevent ulcers and injury. So, "do" invest in special socks and shoes. They are a worthwhile investment.
Wash your feet daily and dry them thoroughly, paying particular attention to the area between the toes. One of the tools necessary for foot care for diabetes is a good moisturizer. It should be applied to the heels and tops of the feet, but not between the toes. That area is too damp and tends to attract fungal infections.
Soaking in hot water is not recommended, because you may inadvertently burn your feet. If you suffer from cold feet, use special warm socks. Do not use hot water bottles or heating pads. They too can cause burns.




Acid and chemical corn removers are no-nos. They can cause burns, which can become infected. Salicylic acid is one of the most common over-the-counter treatments for warts and corns. It's a mild acid, but you may not be able to fee the burn. So, it's best to avoid it.
One of the "dos" of foot care for diabetes is to be sure that your shoes are not too tight. If you are unsure, let an expert inspect them. The size that you have worn all of your life may no longer be appropriate, because of swelling.
Do not wear dress shoes with narrow pointy toes. In just a short period of time, they could cause a blister to form, which could eventually become an ulcer.
Those are the basics of foot care for diabetes. Be sure to practice them every day.

Jerome Kaplan has 30 plus years of experience in the retail foot health products business. He approaches foot health from a preventative standpoint, but also recommends many over-the-counter, affordable solutions to provide relief for most foot conditions. Visit his site to learn more: http://www.FootCareAide.com