Critical Elements in Diabetic Foot Care to Reduce Complications

Diabetes can present a constant danger to the lower extremities often resulting in amputations of the legs, feet and toes. Although non-healing, so called ‘diabetic ulcers’ do not appear overnight, they are often ignored, or the severity is underestimated until it is too late.

One of the main reasons is that persons with long-term diabetes usually lose sensation around their feet so that blisters, cracks, and wounds can develop without them being aware of them. Unattended, these small wounds or cracks can escalate into severe complications. It is therefore critical that persons with diabetes utilize proper foot care to reduce complications.

Diabetic Shoes: It may be hard to accept, but it is critical to avoid pointed-toe shoes, even if the toes are squared off. There should be no breaking-in period required for the right pair of diabetic shoes as they should be comfortable from the time they are tried on. A good pair of diabetic shoes should have a high and wide toebox with insoles that can be removed to accommodate orthotics without making the shoes too tight. They should also reduce pressure points that usually cause foot problems like calluses and blisters, as well as provide good overall support for the feet. Avoid sandals with thongs between the toes as these can cause blisters or calluses.

Diabetic Socks: These socks are designed to prevent moisture build-up and growth of microorganisms that cause infections. While diabetic socks look like any ordinary pair of socks, they are made from a combination of materials such as nylon, acrylic, cotton and elastic fibers that can provide ample cushioning for the feet while keeping them cool and dry. The socks are seamless and are not made of wrinkle-prone material that can cause and aggravate blisters. They can also help to improve blood circulation since they are made with non-binding tops. Comfort and protection are key elements in selecting diabetic socks as they should fit snugly, but comfortably, with no uncomfortable sensations.

Many healthcare providers recommend selecting white or light colored socks as it’s easier to detect any drainage, which would immediately discolor socks in these shades.

Antifungal Foot Cream and Nail Treatments: People with diabetes are at risk for developing nail fungus, characterized by discolored, disfigured, thickened, and split toe- and fingernails. Fungi in the feet can also lead to deformities of the foot if they are not treated aggressively. My research indicates that while there may be over-the-counter medications for topical treatment, as a diabetic you should put nothing against your skin that has not been prescribed by your health care provider. This is because many over-the-counter medications, such as iodine, salicylic acid, and corn removal agents are dangerous to diabetic foot care. For fungal infection your doctor will likely prescribe a treatment that has to be used two times per day and the treatment may have to be continued for up to 12 months for it to be effective.

Diabetic Foot Cream: Dry skin leads to cracks that make the skin more vulnerable to infections so having healthy, soft skin is more advantageous to someone having diabetes. While an effective diabetic cream may help to moisturize areas that are especially dry, care should be taken that no cream is put between the toes. That area of the foot is already susceptible to moisture and adding any lotions or cream would only worsen the situation.

These are some of the most critical elements in diabetic foot care to reduce complications. They may seem to be an overkill, but when you consider that a large number of patients with long-term diabetes have had toes, foot or leg amputated, it makes sense to exercise as much caution as possible.