Protecting your feet is another addition to the list of things you have to be extra mindful of as a diabetic. Peripheral neuropathy or nerve damage could prevent you from feeling pain, which is the first sign that something is wrong. As a result, an ulcer or blister could develop without you even noticing.
Doctors advise you to take a preventive approach to foot care if you are a diabetic, especially since ulcers on your foot could lead to infection, which, in a worst-case scenario, could necessitate an amputation.
To prevent a situation that may result in you losing a leg, foot, and toe, learn how to protect your feet from diabetic ulcers.
Inspect Your Feet Daily
Check your feet every day for signs of blisters, sores, open wounds, scratches, etc. Any changes, no matter how small, require proper treatment by a podiatrist. Feel every part of your feet and notice if you are losing sensation anywhere. The loss of sensation is a sign that you need to seek medical attention and pay extra close attention to your foot health.
Wear The Right Footwear
Never has it been more important to wear the right shoes than after being diagnosed with diabetes. Select shoes based on comfort and support. Wearing shoes that do not fit well or lack support can irritate the skin on your feet and toes, which may lead to the development of corns, calluses, and blisters. Avoid open-toed sandals, high heels, and flip-flops – especially if they irritate your feet.
In addition, you should also choose your socks well and avoid ones with tight bands that cut of circulation to your feet. And make sure they are clean – never wear socks you haven’t washed.
Avoid Walking Barefoot
As lovely as it may seem, it’s best not to walk barefoot. Your feet are vulnerable to injury without the support of shoes and socks. Plus, there’s also the risk of developing cuts that can lead to infection.
Lose Weight
Excess weight can put immense pressure on your lower extremities. Therefore, if you are overweight or obese, it should be part of your treatment plan to lose weight. More weight also means an increase in friction when wearing shoes.
See a Podiatrist Regularly
When it comes to preventing diabetic ulcers, you will really benefit from seeing a podiatrist that specializes in diabetic foot care. Podiatrists can check your feet regularly and address issues, such as an infection, early on. If you have an advanced wound with diseased tissue, some podiatrists can perform limb salvage to prevent limb loss through amputation. Podiatrists are a great way to not only treat foot issues but also prevent them from happening in the first place. Regular visits with a podiatrist can help detect issues before they develop or worsen.
Advanced Podiatric Care For Diabetic Foot Conditions in Texas
At The Podiatry Group of South Texas, we help take proper care of your feet to prevent complications that can lead to limb loss. Our goal is to ensure effective management of disease and preservation of your toes, feet, and legs. Our podiatrists are not just knowledgeable and experienced, they are also compassionate and take a gentle approach with patients.
If you are seeing signs of diabetic foot conditions on your feet, call The Podiatry Group of South Texas location nearest you. You can also send an appointment request now.
