Diabetes affects millions of lives worldwide. We often hear about its effects on blood sugar levels, vision, or kidney health. But there’s a vital part of our body that frequently gets overlooked in daily diabetes care: our feet!
The truth is, your foot health is a crucial pillar of your overall well-being when you’re living with diabetes. In fact, statistics highlight just how urgent this care is: according to the American Diabetes Association, a staggering 50% of non-traumatic amputations in the United States are a direct consequence of diabetes. This isn’t a minor detail; it’s an essential part of your health plan.
Why do your feet need special attention when living with diabetes?
Over time, diabetes can damage nerves and blood vessels, especially in your extremities. This can lead to two main issues in your feet:
- Nerve Damage (Diabetic Neuropathy): Diabetes can reduce sensation in your feet. This means you might not feel a cut, blister, or an uncomfortable rub from a shoe in time. What’s a minor annoyance for others can go unnoticed for someone with neuropathy and quickly escalate into a serious problem.
- Poor Circulation: Diabetes can also decrease blood flow to your feet. When blood circulation is poor, wounds take longer to heal, and your body struggles to fight off infections.
When these factors combine, even a small injury can rapidly turn into an ulcer and, in severe cases, lead to serious infections or even the need for amputation.
How to protect your feet and give them the care they deserve?
Protecting your feet isn’t complicated, but it does require consistency. Here are some simple, vital steps:
- Daily Inspection: Check your feet every evening. Look for any redness, swelling, cuts, blisters, or changes in your skin or nails. Use a mirror to check the bottom of your feet. If you find anything unusual, act immediately.
- Careful Hygiene: Wash your feet daily with lukewarm water and mild soap. Dry them thoroughly, paying special attention between your toes.
- Essential Hydration: Apply moisturizing cream to the soles and tops of your feet to prevent cracks. Avoid applying cream between your toes.
- Proper Footwear: Always wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes and check inside them before putting them on. Avoid walking barefoot and wear clean, cotton or wool socks without seams.
- Visit Your Doctor: Regular check-ups with your vascular specialist are essential. A professional can identify issues you might not notice, assess your circulation and sensation, and provide proper foot care guidelines. Don’t wait for a serious problem to appear; prevention and early detection make all the difference.
We’re here to take care of you
At Soleil Surgical, we’re committed to providing you with the information and support you need so we can care for your vascular health together. Prevention and regular medical visits are powerful tools that can significantly improve your long-term well-being.
If you have diabetes or are concerned about your foot health, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance.
An early check-up can prevent major problems! Schedule an appointment with one of our vascular specialists by calling (407) 343-4983.