A diabetic foot requires special attention and care because minor infections and compromises in the blood supply of the foot can progress to diabetic foot complications like gangrenes. Neural damages and vascular occlusion are one of the the major causes of gangrenous (dead) feet in diabetics and this requires therapeutic amputation.
Do you know the routine feet checks required? Do you wish you knew how to take care of your feet daily? You need to know the cleaning routines and the warning signs of an “at risk feet”.
This article will highlight specific steps for proper diabetic foot care and warning signs you should not neglect.
HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR DIABETIC FEET
A clinical research study of 368 diabetic patients revealed that 76.6% of these patients had good knowledge of diabetic foot and foot ulcers and 98.4% practiced daily feet washing. However, only 47.6% of them inspected their foot on a daily basis.
Your daily diabetic foot care routine should be divided into 3 phases as follows:
INSPECTION
You must make a habit of checking your feet using a mirror. Examine your whole feet especially the sole and heel. Look out for any cuts, sores or inflammation signs like swelling and redness.
CLEANING AND DRYING TECHNIQUES
Wash your feet in lukewarm water using a mild soap. Use your hands to ascertain the temperature of the water before inserting your feet into the water.
Do not test the water using your feet because your feet may not give you an accurate sense of warmth.
Ensure you use a soft clean towel to dry your feet specifically in between the toes and apply a lotion to keep your feet moisturized leaving out the toe spaces.
PRECAUTIONARY USE OF OBJECTS ON YOUR FEET
There are certain objects which can affect your feet and they are:
- Sharp objects- Avoid using any sharp objects to cut your toe nails-Use a nail cutter and not a razor blade.
- Antiseptic solutions increases your risk of skin burns around your feet- do not use them at all.
- Hot objects like hot water bottle – Do not apply them on your feet.
DAILY FOOT CARE HABITS
- Walk with your slippers around your house and never barefooted.
- Only cut your nails after washing them because the nails are softer and easier to cut then.
- Do not stand one a spot for too long to avoid pressure on the heels.
- Avoid exposing your feet to extreme temperatures- hot or cold surfaces.
- Wear only comfortable shoes and never tight ones.
- Wear socks to warm up your feet during cold weather or at night
- Avoid sandals that expose your toes.
WARNING SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DIABETIC FOOT
Your ability to identify these signs will prevent progression to complications. Inform your doctor immediately you notice one or more of the signs below:
- Burns or pains in the feet
- Numbness
- Sores, cuts and ulcers in the feet
- Inflammatory changes such as redness, warmth in your feet
- Thickening and yellowish discoloration of the toe nails.
You need to follow the routine foot care techniques highlighted above to keep your feet healthy. Also, ensure you promptly report any unusual diabetic foot signs to your doctor.
Which of the phases above do you practice daily? Send us your comments and questions. Share this information with your friends and family to educate them.
