Diabetes and foot care

Diabetes and foot care

Diabetics get ulcers on their feet more easily than others, and if it is not detected and treated, it can in the worst case lead to the need for amputation. Good daily foot care is therefore important for you with diabetes.

Why is foot care important in diabetes?

Diabetics who have elevated blood sugar over a long period of time can eventually suffer damage to blood vessels and nerves. This can result in poorer blood circulation and reduced sensitivity in the feet. Poor blood circulation and reduced sensitivity mean that you can get sores more easily, that sores heal more slowly, and that injuries or sores can be difficult to detect.

Good blood sugar control and good foot care can prevent such wounds and injuries, and at the same time make it easier to detect any wounds earlier.

Foot care tips for diabetics

• Check your feet daily, preferably using a mirror

• Wash your feet every day in lukewarm water (below 37 °C). Also remember to dry your feet well, especially between the toes

• Feel free to take a foot bath from time to time, but for no more than 5 minutes and use lukewarm water (below 37 °C). If you have foot ulcers, you should not take a foot bath

• Use an oily foot cream daily.

• Cut the nails across, and carefully round off the corners with a file. Keep your nails fairly short so they don't gnaw on neighboring toes

• Wear good and roomy shoes, but which still sit well on the foot (they should not "jump")

• Use socks without tight knits, and change socks daily

• Callus should be removed by a podiatrist, you can also receive training in callus removal from a podiatrist

• Do not use corn plasters or wart remedies with caustic substances

• Have your feet examined regularly by a doctor, podiatrist or nurse

• Good blood sugar control and regular exercise are beneficial

Sources: Norwegian Diabetes Association and Helsenorge