Diabetic Feet

Foot care is especially important to people with diabetes. About
14 million Americans are diabetic. Many of them are unaware
that they have the disease. If diabetes is not properly controlled,
it can cause nerve damage, resulting in a lack of feeling, especially
in the legs and feet.

As a result, wounds and infections may go unnoticed and untreated.
By the time the problem is detected, amputation may be the end result.
Even a seemingly minor infection can lead to serious complications.
Doctors emphasize that no foot infection is minor in someone who has
diabetes. Loss of sensation is not the only complication of diabetes
associated with the feet and legs.

Poor blood circulation can cause pain while walking. Open sores on
the feet also can result from circulation problems, and from ill-fitting
shoes. Such soresrequire immediate and aggressive treatment to
combat infection.

Sudden swelling of the feet also calls for emergency treatment.
The importance of prevention. Only proper foot care by medical
professionals and by the patient and the patient's family can
prevent serious problems.

Basic guidelines on foot care for people with diabetes include
the following:

* Maintain a proper weight to ease the burden on the feet,
and follow a low-fat, high-fiber diet to aid blood circulation by
keeping arteries healthy.

* Exercise regularly, and include exercises that move the
feet up and down and improve blood circulation.

* Inspect the feet daily; more often if there is a loss of
sensation. Inspect feet especially when wearing new shoes,
check feet after the first hour of wear. And again until sure, there
are no problems. Look for such signs of problems as redness, swelling,
blisters, ulcers, or increased warmth. Any of these signs require
immediate medical attention.

* Avoid tobacco and caffeine, which constrict (narrow) the
blood vessels and reduce the blood supply to the legs and feet.

* Wash the feet daily and dry them carefully between the toes
to reduce the chances of infection from fungi and other microbes.

* Do not walk barefoot, this will increases the chances of injury and
infection.

* Inspect the insides of shoes every day for signs of wear
and anything that might rub against the feet. Always check shoe
for foreign objects.

* Avoid wearing shoes without socks, and wear socks that are
not constrictive, and if possible wear seamless socks. Cotton
socks, which absorb moisture, are best.

* Avoid the use chemicals or over-the-counter skin products
on your feet.

* To alleviate dry skin, apply baby oil or mineral oil and then
wipe away any excess oil.

* Don't trim calluses. Get professional care.

* Don't use elastic bandages or tape on the feet or legs.
They can reduce circulation.

* Avoid hot surfaces and hot water. Lack of sensation can
prevent people from feeling the heat and lead to a burn. Always
check water temperature when washing feet.

*Elevate the feet whenever possible to keep
swelling down.

*Be sure shoes fit properly, and have feet measured each time
before buying shoes.

This Information was brought to you courtesy of Happy Feet Plus.
http://www.happyfeet.com