Diabetes and your feet

In a previous blog we have discussed how diabetics should go about caring for their feet, but how does diabetes affect the feet? How can a diabetic prevent themselves from getting into trouble with their feet?

http://footnj.com/podiatrist-new-jersey-about-us/23/232-diabetic-foot-care-and-shoes

Just a little bit of background information….

Type II diabetes mellitus, also known as adult onset diabetes, affects over 280 million people worldwide.  The increase in obesity in the United States is a contributing factor for the increase in the number of people afflicted with this disease. As the disease progresses over time, it affects the eyes, kidneys and feet.

Diabetes affects the feet via peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy is when the nerves are damaged. This is caused with either increases or fluctuations in blood sugar levels. As diabetes progresses neuropathy can cause tingling, burning and eventually numbness to the toes and feet. The concern that podiatrists and other medical practitioners have is that if a diabetic can’t feel their feet they may injury or cut their feet and may not feel it. This can then lead to a diabetic foot wound, subsequent infection and possibly even amputation. It is recommended that a diabetic follow up closely by a podiatrist a few times a year for a foot checkup.

Other important factors in relation to diabetes and feet are poor circulation. Peripheral vascular disease, also known as PVD, can cause blockages in the blood flowing to the legs. Someone can have PVD with or without diabetes. A combination of diabetes, neuropathy and PVD can be destructive. If a diabetic has a lack of sensation to the legs, and diminished blood flow to the feet, an open sore can be catastrophic. A diabetic may form an ulceration, which they cannot feel and then with PVD they cannot heal. Due to this it is highly recommended for close follow up for diabetic foot exams.

If I am a diabetic, what are measures I can take to prevent any foot infections?

Besides close follow up by a foot specialist it is recommended for diabetic to do daily foot inspections. By checking ones feet daily a small cut or lesion can be identified and should be immediately reported to ones physician before an infection sets in. It is also recommended to keep the spaces between the toes dry and the skin on the top and bottom of the foot well hydrated with moisturizer. It is recommended to wear white diabetic socks, where one can spot blood or pus, before even realizing they have a sore. Lastly, wearing comfortable protective diabetic shoes is advisable. Diabetic shoes with heat molded inserts are covered by Medicare and most insurance plans. This can be dispensed during a foot checkup.

For more information please visit the American Diabetes Association at http://www.diabetes.org and our website at footnj.com