Being diagnosed with diabetes is a life-changing event for a growing number of people. In fact, according to recent statistics, 1.4 million people receive this news from their doctors each year in the United States. While changes in diet and medication are common treatments, a diabetes diagnosis also requires patients to make other changes in their lives.
One of these changes is learning about the connection between diabetes and foot health. If you are newly diagnosed with this serious health condition, here are three proactive tips to keep your feet healthy and strong.
Examine your feet every day
The high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes is known to affect sensation in the feet and lower extremities. This can make it more difficult for those who have this health condition to feel cuts and blisters on their feet. This coupled with the lessened blood flow, also due to the diabetic condition, can make it possible for sores and blisters on the feet to more easily become infected and lead to blood poisoning, amputation, or even death, if not treated.
Diabetics can greatly reduce their risk of developing serious foot health issues and complications by simply taking time to examine their feet carefully each day. Doing this while seated in front of a mirror or by using a hand mirror will help to ensure that cuts, blisters, and other problems get noticed and treated.
Encourage blood flow
Remaining active after a diabetic diagnosis is an important part of keeping your feet health. Mild exercise, including walking and stretching will help to encourage healthy blood flow to your feet. After walking or exercising, taking time to massage your feet with moisturizing cream can further increase blood flow, while also helping to keep the skin healthy and resilient.
Keep your feet comfortable
Part of keeping your feet comfortable and healthy is also to make sure that the socks you choose to wear are in good condition, with no holes or snags that could contribute to foot irritation. It is also important to wear socks that help to wick moisture away from the skin and make sure that they are not too tight or include tight elastic bands that could further interfere with healthy circulation to the feet.
Quality footwear is critically important for those who have been diagnosed with diabetes. Shoes that fit poorly due to faulty construction or wear can greatly increase the risk of developing the type of wound that will require medical or surgical intervention to address. Visiting a custom orthotic service specialist can offer diabetics supportive footwear products to encourage foot health.
Share7 February 2019
I was always very healthy throughout my childhood, but when I became a teenager, I was diagnosed with a chronic illness. Thankfully, I had the support of my loving family to help keep me upbeat during a time that could have led to me experiencing the depression that some do after they first learn they will have an illness for life. I am very grateful for the advice I have gotten throughout my life, so I decided to create a blog where I can share all of the advice that has helped me live a happy, healthy life, despite having a chronic illness. Since I am on a medication that suppresses my immune system, I have also studied up on many other illnesses and tips for avoiding them and treating them. I plan to post health tips for people of a variety of ages and suffering with various illnesses!