Advice for diabetic patients on foot care & treatment
Diabetes mellitus is a common disorder that affects some 200 million individuals around the world. There are however many ways to lessen or control the symptoms, for example a healthy, balanced diet.
Due to the many risks and potential dangers that a diabetic patient may experience, it would be advantageous to review the following guidelines when it comes to care & treatment of your feet.
Wash feet daily in warm water using soap or an oil based emulsion - checking the temperature by using your elbow or a thermometer, since the hand may be affected by peripheral neuropathy and/or vascular insufficiency.
Dry feet thoroughly but gently with a soft towel - dabbing rather than rubbing
Regularly check your feet - especially between the toes for any cracks, cuts or abrasions as these can become infected if not treated quickly. Ask for assistance from friends or family if necessary. On discovering a problem clean the area with a mild antiseptic and apply a clean bandage. Contact your GP or a foot health practitioner
Change socks or hosiery daily - It is important that these are free from any seams, holes or darnsand that the toes are not cramped or impeded by them.
Wear soft leather shoes - It is important that stitching etc does not cause rubbing of the foot.
Do not go bare foot - your feet should always be protected.
Protect from the elements - While in the sun keep feet protected from sunburn, or at other times of the year protect them from chilblains and the cold.
Cutting the nail - It is important that nothing is poked or placed down the sides of the nail. If it is not possible or it is becoming difficult for a individual to cut their own nails, it would be highly recommended that they ask an experienced foot health practitioner to do this for them as it is important that the nails are cut correctly.
Neurological testing for diabetes patients
An additional service that I am able to provide is neurological testing. On a regular basis (6 months is recommended) an analysis is completed on certain key sensory areas of the feet which will help record and keep track of the state of the condition, enabling the patient to be aware of the limitations that are placed upon them due to diabetes.
Diabetes mellitus is a common disorder that affects some 200 million individuals around the world. There are however many ways to lessen or control the symptoms, for example a healthy, balanced diet.
Due to the many risks and potential dangers that a diabetic patient may experience, it would be advantageous to review the following guidelines when it comes to care & treatment of your feet.
Wash feet daily in warm water using soap or an oil based emulsion - checking the temperature by using your elbow or a thermometer, since the hand may be affected by peripheral neuropathy and/or vascular insufficiency.
Dry feet thoroughly but gently with a soft towel - dabbing rather than rubbing
Regularly check your feet - especially between the toes for any cracks, cuts or abrasions as these can become infected if not treated quickly. Ask for assistance from friends or family if necessary. On discovering a problem clean the area with a mild antiseptic and apply a clean bandage. Contact your GP or a foot health practitioner
Change socks or hosiery daily - It is important that these are free from any seams, holes or darnsand that the toes are not cramped or impeded by them.
Wear soft leather shoes - It is important that stitching etc does not cause rubbing of the foot.
Do not go bare foot - your feet should always be protected.
Protect from the elements - While in the sun keep feet protected from sunburn, or at other times of the year protect them from chilblains and the cold.
Cutting the nail - It is important that nothing is poked or placed down the sides of the nail. If it is not possible or it is becoming difficult for a individual to cut their own nails, it would be highly recommended that they ask an experienced foot health practitioner to do this for them as it is important that the nails are cut correctly.
Neurological testing for diabetes patients
An additional service that I am able to provide is neurological testing. On a regular basis (6 months is recommended) an analysis is completed on certain key sensory areas of the feet which will help record and keep track of the state of the condition, enabling the patient to be aware of the limitations that are placed upon them due to diabetes.
