Diabetic Foot Problems
An article on the importance of taking care of your feet if you are a diabetic.
Approximately ten years ago my husband was diagnosed with Diabetes. He was very sick at the time and it was a time of great concern as to what was taking place in his body. The day finally came when we were told it was diabetes. We followed the usual routine that is known to everyone that has diabetes and his health improved over the years until now. My husband is experiencing very painful feet. To look at his feet there are no outward signs of what is taking place inside but a foot specialist should be able to tell us what is taking place.
Anyone with diabetes is prone to foot problems. The symptoms have a wide range such as loss of feeling in the feet which makes it easier to have abrasions and not be aware of it, cold feet that can’t be warmed regardless of what you do, sores or cuts that don’t heal very well, infections of one sort or another, very poor blood circulation and a host of other problems. All of these are the reason why your physician advises you to take care of your feet.
Many of the foot problems caused by diabetes can be prevented if we follow the rules and take the advice of our doctors. This includes checking our blood sugars to make sure they are in the proper range of where they should be. Smoking also has an adverse effect on diabetes as it does on all your body. Take special care of your feet by inspecting them often, especially the bottoms; this can be done by a family member. Take special care when cutting your toenails the slightest nick of your toe can cause infection. Don’t go walking barefoot even at home the risk of hurting your feet is not worth it. Make sure you wear the proper fitting footwear so it doesn’t rub your feet and cause a blister. If you’re buying new footwear try to buy them in the afternoon when your feet are expanded the most.
If you’re a diabetic don’t hesitate to see your doctor for any problem with your feet. If the problem is beyond the norm it is serious enough to ask your doctor’s advice. If he thinks you should be seeing a foot specialist he will make the arrangements for you. My husband did and he is looking forward to finding a solution to the problem he’s experiencing now.
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Paulette | Nov 19, 2008 | Reply
Very good article
sharron rodgers | Nov 20, 2008 | Reply
excellent advice
guacamole | Jan 25, 2009 | Reply
I would have to disagree with not walking barefoot. Walking barefoot can significantly improve the health of your feet and also the rest of your body by improving blood circulation, (they will be warmer and the numbness will begin going away – personal experience) decrease posture and joint problems, and increasing muscle activity in the lower legs. If they aren’t tough enough to walk without getting abrasions, wearing only socks or thin-soled moccasins as often as possible (at home and anywhere else you can) would be the best way to go, I think. You will also be much less likely to get blisters, fungus, plantar fasciitis, etc. Google it.