What is Diabetic Foot Care?
Your feet can be problematic when you have diabetes. Poor circulation (also called peripheral vascular disease) coupled with loss of feeling in the feet (peripheral neuropathy) contribute to a high rate of foot problems, which can lead to amputations. However, when properly managed, there are ways to prevent amputations in diabetics.
Causes of Diabetic Foot Complications
People with diabetes are prone to complications. Common causes of diabetic foot problems include:
- Neuropathy
- Peripheral vascular or artery disease
- Ulcers
- ·Charcot's foot
- Infections
- Wounds or injuries to your feet
Symptoms of Diabetic Foot Complications
If you have diabetes, common signs to watch out for include:
- Coldness in the feet.
- Numbness or tingling.
- Burning.
- Sharp pain that stops when you rest.
- Changes in skin color.
- Open sores on the foot.
- Swelling and/or warmth.
- Ingrown toenails.
- Foot deformities.
Diabetic Foot Care Treatment
Diabetics require continued oversight by a medical professional. Any time a sore, irritated spot that doesn’t get better or a break in the skin is noticed, you should see your healthcare professional.
Physical activity is essential for people managing diabetes. This helps new blood vessels grow and helps keep amputations at bay. If you encounter an issue, bed rest, elevation of the legs or feet, and other treatments as recommended by your physician such as scraping away dead tissue or wearing a cast are in order. Furthermore, you can avoid diabetic foot injuries through diligent hygiene, well-fitting, comfortable footwear, and caution when treating your feet. You should never go barefoot if you are diabetic. When diabetic foot problems worsen, they can lead to severe complications such as infection, gangrene, Charcot foot, pain, and amputation.