The feet of diabetic patients require special attention in order to avoid major complications. These complications can be characterized by loss of sensitivity of the feet due to nerve damage, dryness of the feet or even by the appearance of cracks, calluses and bone deformities of the foot which can create pressure points.
Due to the reduced sensitivity of the feet, these injuries can go unnoticed and subsequently worsen. The podiatrists at the Clinique Podiatrique Stéphanie Bonneau Inc. explain how to take care of diabetic feet in 8 very simple steps.
Examine your feet daily
Diabetic feet, having lost their sensitivity, are more prone to injuries. In order to prevent injuries or treat them properly, we recommend that you carefully examine your feet several times a day. You can also ask a relative for help.
Wash your feet regularly and dry them carefully
Good diabetic foot hygiene will limit the proliferation of microbes but also prevent fungal infections and other foot conditions. Effective drying of your feet will also prevent mycosis and infections.
Hydrate your feet
Diabetic feet are prone to dryness that can subsequently cause cracks and even foot injuries. The use of nourishing diabetic foot creams will restore moisture to the feet and prevent complications due to dry skin.
Do not walk barefoot and wear appropriate shoes
Diabetic feet can become immune to injuries. For example, a patient can walk on a sharp object without feeling pain. This kind of wound can cause, in the worst scenarios, a foot infection that can lead to amputation. Wearing shoes helps to prevent these risks. Likewise, suitable and comfortable shoes will allow you to walk in the best conditions.
Always wear clean socks
We recommend clean, loose socks: they should be changed daily and should not impede circulation. Merino wool will keep your feet dry and prevent the proliferation of germs.
Take care of your nails and feet
Unkept toenails can lead to injury or complications like ingrown toenails. Some patients may inflict cuts and injuries on themselves while caring for their toenails. Thus, in order to avoid possible injuries, we recommend consulting a podiatrist to carry out diabetic foot care.
Consult your podiatrist immediately in case of injury
Good responsiveness will make it possible to provide appropriate care for diabetic feet as soon as possible and prevent the aggravation of injuries.
Consult your podiatrist regularly
Prevention is better than cure, a good follow-up of diabetic feet by a podiatrist will help maintain the health of diabetic feet and provide the patient with a better quality of life. The podiatrists at the Clinique Podiatrique Stéphanie Bonneau Inc. remain available to advise you at all times.
