HEALTHY DIABETIC FOOT CARE ROUTINES

A diabetic foot requires special attention and care because of the risk of progressive complications like foot gangrenes, etc.

Neural damages and vascular occlusion are one of the major causes of gangrenous (dead) feet in diabetics. Do you know the routine feet checks required? Would you like to learn how to take care of your feet daily? In this article, you will learn the specific steps for proper diabetic foot care and warning signs.

DIABETIC FOOT CARE ROUTINE

Your daily diabetic foot care routine should be divided into 3 phases as follows:

FEET INSPECTION

You must check your feet daily 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 OF YOUR FEET

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.

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 on time reduces your risk of having diabetic foot 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 toenails.

You have to cultivate the habit of adhering to the routine foot care techniques discussed above to keep your feet healthy. Also, ensure you promptly seek professional assistance when you see any unusual diabetic foot signs.

Please share this information with your friends and family to educate them.