Diabetic Foot Care
People with diabetes are much more likely to suffer nerve damage, circulation problems, and infections—all problems that directly affect the feet. The lack of feeling and poor blood flow caused by poor diabetes management can allow a small blister or wound to progress into a serious infection that could lead to amputation. Nerve damage—also called neuropathy—can cause skin to dry out and crack, which opens up another avenue for bacteria and fungi to enter the body.
Preventative Measures
To prevent diabetic complications, it’s important to take proactive rather than reactive. That means visiting your doctor regularly, exercising, and eating a healthy and balanced diet. It also means that you have to pay special attention to your feet by inspecting them regularly. Properly inspecting your feet should include the following:
- Searching for puncture wounds, bruises, redness, blisters, ulcers, cuts, and/or scratches
- Examine the bottoms of your feet and toes
- Thoroughly wash your feet with soap and warm water
- Use lotion to keep feet soft
- Trim toenails regularly
- Smooth out corns and calluses
Diabetic Shoes
Diabetic shoes, also known as therapeutic shoes, play a vital role in the foot care of individuals with diabetes. People with diabetes are often at risk for foot complications due to poor circulation, nerve damage, and deformities. Diabetic shoes are specifically designed to minimize these risks and provide support where it’s needed most.
These shoes are crafted with unique features that distinguish them from regular footwear. They typically include a wider toe box, giving the toes more room to move without constriction, which can help in preventing blisters and ulcers. The extra depth allows for custom orthotic inserts, which can be molded to the shape of the foot, providing tailored support and cushioning.
The materials used in diabetic shoes are usually soft and breathable, reducing pressure points and allowing air to circulate around the feet. Seamless interiors help to eliminate potential sources of friction and irritation. The soles are often built with shock-absorbing materials to relieve pressure on the heel and forefoot.
Diabetic shoes are often prescribed by podiatrists or other healthcare providers, who will evaluate the specific needs and foot structure of the individual patient. Fittings should be done by professionals who are trained in working with diabetic footwear to ensure that the shoes are appropriately matched to the patient’s foot shape and medical condition.
Proper footwear is an essential component of comprehensive diabetic foot care, and these specially designed shoes can make a significant difference in the quality of life for those managing diabetes. By reducing the risks of foot injuries and complications, diabetic shoes contribute to the overall well-being and mobility of individuals with this chronic condition. At Batavia Foot Care Center, our specialists can help you find the right pair of diabetic shoes to fit your needs and provide ongoing support as part of a personalized care plan.
Complications
Properly managing your diabetes and protecting your feet can help avoid complications caused by infections. When infections go untreated and aren’t treated properly, you risk losing your foot altogether. When infections like gangrene begin to kill dead tissues, the only treatment available is surgery to remove the affected appendage.
Diabetes is a serious condition that—if improperly managed—can become potentially life-threatening. Contact our office for more details.
