Self-Care at Home for Diabetic Foot - Diabetes India

Diabetes India

61,870 members12,104 posts

Self-Care at Home for Diabetic Foot

Dr_Pallavi profile image
5 Replies

A person with diabetes should do the following:

Foot examination: Examine your feet daily and also after any trauma, no matter how minor, to your feet. Report any abnormalities to your physician. Use a water-based moisturizer every day (but not between your toes) to prevent dry skin and cracking. Wear cotton or wool socks. Avoid elastic socks and hosiery because they may impair circulation.

Eliminate obstacles: Move or remove any items you are likely to trip over or bump your feet on. Keep clutter on the floor picked up. Light the pathways used at night - indoors and outdoors.

Toenail trimming: Always cut your nails with a safety clipper, never a scissors. Cut them straight across and leave plenty of room out from the nail bed or quick. If you have difficulty with your vision or using your hands, let your doctor do it for you or train a family member how to do it safely.

Footwear: Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes whenever feasible to protect your feet. To be sure your shoes fit properly, see a podiatrist (foot doctor) for fitting recommendations or shop at shoe stores specializing in fitting people with diabetes. If you have flat feet, bunions, or hammertoes, you may need prescription shoes or shoe inserts.

Exercise: Regular exercise will improve bone and joint health in your feet and legs, improve circulation to your legs, and will also help to stabilize your blood sugar levels. Consult your physician prior to beginning any exercise program.

Smoking: If you smoke any form of tobacco, quitting can be one of the best things you can do to prevent problems with your feet. Smoking accelerates damage to blood vessels, especially small blood vessels leading to poor circulation, which is a major risk factor for foot infections and ultimately amputations.

Diabetes control: Following a reasonable diet, taking your medications, checking your blood sugar regularly, exercising regularly, and maintaining good communication with your physician are essential in keeping your diabetes under control. Consistent long-term blood sugar control to near normal levels can greatly lower the risk of damage to your nerves, kidneys, eyes, and blood vessels.

Written by
Dr_Pallavi profile image
Dr_Pallavi
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
Read more about...
5 Replies
Debasish profile image
Debasish

Thank you for the post.

Dr_Pallavi profile image
Dr_Pallavi in reply toDebasish

Thank You & Regards.

This is really a comprehensive post.Doctor,Thank you.

Dr_Pallavi profile image
Dr_Pallavi in reply to

Thank You

rinku profile image
rinku

thanks

Not what you're looking for?

You may also like...

Foot Care in Diabetes

Remember - Foot problems, hospitalization or infection are preventable - Regular foot...
StopDiabetes profile image
Diabetes India

Precautions to be taken to prevent leg problem in diabetes

50 per cent of amputees either die or lose another leg within three years of amputation. Diabetic...
StopDiabetes profile image
Diabetes India

Peripheral Neuropathy, Diabetes, and Your Feet

When you have peripheral neuropathy caused by diabetes, your feet and skin need extra care and...

Exercise in Diabetes: Part 3

Precaution should be taken before initiating exercise program in a diabetic person Find out...
StopDiabetes profile image
Diabetes India

Liver care for diabetic persons.

It may be wise to consider the factors affecting the health of your liver, especially if you are a...
patliputra profile image

Moderation team

See all
Activity2004 profile image
Activity2004Administrator
barani19 profile image
barani19Administrator
namaha profile image
namahaAdministrator

Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.

Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.