Foot Care in Diabetes
In a diabetic of several years’ standing, proper foot care is essential for the following reasons:
- Nerve pathways to the feet - may be affected so that injury or irritation that would otherwise be felt (i.e. a shoe rubbing, or a small stone or thorn or piece of glass) is not noticed. This can lead to the development of infection or an ulcer, which is difficult to heal.
- Circulation - may be affected leading to slower than normal healing of any damage that may occur (as above) and the formation of a persistent ulcer.
- Reduced sensation in the feet or pins and needles - interruption of position sense of the feet and body can lead to a shift in weight in the foot, and the pressure of bone on the skin or the formation of callosities. Toenails can cause problems by becoming ingrown and causing damage and infection.
Therefore, from the time of diagnosis, diabetics must pay particular attention to their feet, looking after the skin, making sure shoes fit properly, that the feet are cushioned and if necessary going to a podiatrist regularly to treat callosities properly and cut toenails. Going around in bare feet, even indoors is to be discouraged.
