Healthy Living

Foot Care and Diabetes: What You Need to Know

Do you have diabetes and suffer from foot injuries frequently? Do you wonder if the injuries are related to your diabetes?

If you have diabetes, you need to take foot care seriously, especially if you have nerve damage that affects your sense of touch. An infection can lead to potential amputation if it worsens.

If you have diabetes, you need to follow a specific program for diabetes and foot care tips to find relief for your pains. As always it is best to consult a doctor before taking any drastic action. To find a specialist in your area just google “CRO services San Diego” or whichever area you live in.

But how do you go about doing that? Here’s what you need to know about diabetes and how your feet are affected by it.

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Overview of Foot Care and Diabetes

Proper foot care is important for those living with diabetes. Diabetes can cause foot complications due to high blood sugar.

Proper foot care includes inspecting the feet and keeping them clean and dry. Diabetics need to check their feet daily and always address any foot injury, such as cuts, cracks, or infections, right away.

Common Diabetic Foot Conditions

Foot health is essential for those with diabetes. Common diabetic foot conditions include pre-ulceration and ulceration, infection, Charcot’s foot, and severe calluses.

Pre-ulceration and ulcers occur due to nerve damage in the feet caused by diabetes, causing skin breakdown and poor blood flow. This can lead to infection, which can be very serious, and even lead to diabetes leg amputation if not treated promptly.

Charcot’s foot is a condition of weakening bones and joints in the feet and ankles, leading to foot deformities that can result in trouble walking. Severe callus growth is also common, caused by a combination of deformities, walking, and shoe pressure, leading to further skin breakdown, ulceration, and infection.

Diabetic Footwear

There are some important facts to understand about taking care of your feet if you have diabetes. One key factor is diabetic footwear. Due to the potential of neuropathy, diabetic feet lack feeling and can be seriously injured by a poorly fitting shoe. Finding the best Orthopaedic Footwear for your situation is essential, especially as over time your feet can have other issues as well due to age and health, so starting foot care as soon as possible is important.

For these reasons, it is recommended to ensure a good fit by seeking an experienced fitter, such as at a specialty store. Diabetic shoes should be replaced annually, as they lose their shape, cushioning, and support, and can become too tight.

Additionally, it is important to reduce pressure on the feet by keeping your toenails trimmed and feet clean and dry. Proper foot care is vital to managing and preventing problems related to diabetes. If you are concerned about your foot care, speak to your doctor for more information and guidance.

Nutritional Changes to Support Healthy Feet With Diabetes

Good foot care is a critical part of diabetes management, and good nutrition can play an important role in supporting healthy feet with diabetes. Diabetics have an increased risk of developing foot infections, nerve damage, and complications due to poor circulation.

Eating fresh and nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables, can benefit foot health. Increasing Omega 3 intake is also beneficial, as it helps reduce inflammation, which can cause swelling and pain. Rehydrating and replenishing electrolytes are important, as dehydration can contribute to nerve and circulation issues.

Learn About Foot Care and Diabetes

Diabetes can make it hard to take care of your feet, but it doesn’t have to prevent you from enjoying life. Work with your doctor to develop a regular foot care plan that gives you the right support and helps keep your feet healthy. When in doubt, ask your doctor if a pair of comfortable, properly-fitted shoes is right for you.

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