Dr. Deblasi discusses the impact of diabetes on our feet. What are the contributing factors? She also provides some simple dos and don’ts to minimize the risk of diabetic foot conditions.
Have you ever wondered why diabetes affects the feet? There are a few factors that contribute to foot issues in a patient with diabetes. These include:
- Neuropathy
In the US, the most common cause of peripheral neuropathy is diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, 60 to 70% of patients with diabetes will develop neuropathy within their lifetime. The most common symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include burning numbness, tingling, or shooting or stabbing pain in the toes.
- Circulation/Blood flow:
An elevated blood sugar level stiffens the arteries and causes narrowing of the blood vessels. This results in decreased blood flow and oxygen to the feet. An elevated blood sugar level also decreases the function of red blood cells that carry nutrients to the tissue. This lowers the efficiency of the white blood cells that fight infection. Without sufficient nutrients and oxygen, a wound heals slowly.
- Immune System:
Diabetes lowers the efficiency of the immune system, the body’s defense system against infection. A high glucose level causes the immune cells to function ineffectively, which raises the risk of infection for the patient.
Here are some simple everyday dos and don’ts that will help you minimize your risk for more serious foot issues that may arise from diabetes.
Diabetes Do’s:
Check your feet every day for: cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, bruises, changes to the toenails, such as thickening or discoloration.
Check your blood sugar routinely and make it a goal to get the HbgA1C <7%.
Eat right – adequate protein, carbohydrates and vitamin C intake are key factors to aid healing.
Consider seeing a registered dietician.
Exercise – Walking can keep weight down and improve circulation. Be sure to wear appropriate athletic shoes when exercising.
Moisturize your feet – but not between the toes,
Get periodic foot exams – Regular checkups by a podiatrist, at least annually, are the best way to ensure that your feet remain healthy.
Diabetic Don’ts
Don’t ignore any abnormality in appearance or pain.
Don’t perform “bathroom surgery”. Seek medical treatment.
Don’t use medicated corns/callus pads. Over-the-counter products can burn the skin and cause damage to the foot for people with diabetes.
Don’t walk around barefoot or only in socks (even in your own home). Wear thick, soft white socks.
Avoid socks with seams, which could rub and cause blisters or some other skin injuries. The risk of cuts and infection is too great for those with diabetes.
Don’t wear tight shoes. Foot size and shape may change over time. Shoes that fit properly are important to those with diabetes. Have new shoes properly fitted and measured.
Don’t soak your feet in hot water, walk on hot sand or pavement and don’t rest your feet against a fire or space heater.
Don’t smoke! Diabetics who smoke are more likely than nonsmokers to have trouble with insulin dosing and with controlling their disease. Smokers with diabetes have higher risks for serious complications including heart and kidney disease, poor blood flow in the legs and feet that can lead to infections, ulcers, and possible amputation, retinopathy (an eye disease that can cause blindness) and peripheral neuropathy.
These guidelines are initiative-taking and preventive measures to try and reduce the risk of foot issues in diabetic patients. It is recommended every person with diabetes have a yearly foot exam by a podiatrist. Preventative care is a key component- make your appointment TODAY!
If you’re experiencing diabetic foot issues or need to schedule your annual exam, contact Dr. DeBlasi’s office at (239) 430-3668 (FOOT) or visit NaplesPodiatrist.com to schedule an appointment with one of our award-winning surgical podiatrists.
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