Ever wondered how diabetes affects your feet?

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Long standing uncontrolled diabetic glucose levels directly affect the nerves of your feet.

This results in loss of sensation, tingling, pins and needles, burning and sometimes pain in one or both feet commonly known as Peripheral Neuropathy. Due to the loss of sensation you can easily get a cut or blister and not even know it’s there.

An infection that won’t heal due to circulatory problems in diabetic patients poses a risk for foot ulcerations, amputation and even death.

Listed below are tips to prevent ulcerations, amputations and a few foot care habits that you should adopt.

  • Inspect your feet, not forgetting the area in between the toes. If you’re unable to check your feet use a mirror or ask someone to help.
  • Wash your feet everyday with warm water and soap. Check the water temperature with your fingers before putting your feet in. Due to nerve damage you may be unable to differentiate between hot and cold.
  • Make sure feet are dried well especially in between the toes.
  • Apply a moisturising lotion or oil. Avoid applying this between the toes.
  • Never sit by the heater nor use a heat pack, hot water bottle or electric blanket.
  • Avoid walking barefoot. It can cause sores or injuries that can get infected.
  • Never do self-surgery, like the removal of corns, callouses and warts. Avoid using over the counter wart removers, corn plasters or razor blades. See your podiatrist.
  • Diabetic patients are advised not to perform routine toenail care unless they are physically able to. Make sure to see your podiatrist for assistance and to prevent ulcerations.
  • Purchase well-fitting shoes with a wide toe box and cushioned innersole. Don’t buy ill fitting shoes hoping that they will stretch.
  • Inspect your shoes before wearing them to make sure there are no objects in them that will create a sore or blister.
  • Your feet are the foundation blocks to your body. Give your feet a little time, love and care each day. Be sure to visit your podiatrist regularly ensuring a step to better health.

* Information obtained from Sakina Khan, B. Pod (SA), Podiatrist.

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