People with neuropathy need a special foot care, Loss of sensation in the feet means that sores or injuries may not be notice and thus may end up with amputation.
Why does diabetic foot need extra care?
The nerves to the feet are the longest in the body may be the reason for circulation problems and increase the risk of foot ulcers.
More than 50 % of all lower-limb amputations in the US occur in people with diabetes, approximately 86,000 amputations per annum. Studies show amputations caused by neuropathy are by poor circulation can be prevented by proper foot care.
Diabetic foot care tips
- Clean your feet daily with lukewarm water (not hot water) and a mild soap. Avoid soaking your feet for some time, and dry them with a soft towel be carefully between toes.
- Inspect your feet and particularly toes every day for any cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or other problems. If you are not able to check the bottom of your foot, then use a mirror or get help from someone. Consult your health care provider if any problems.
- Moisturize your feet with a moisturizing lotion.
- After a bath, file corns and calluses gently with a pumice stone.
- Each week, cut your nails and file the edges with an Emery board. Does carefully accidental toe damage may happen?
- Always go with shoes or slippers to protect your feet from injuries. Prevent skin irritation by wearing thick and soft socks.
- Be careful when wearing new footwear, check, and relax for every one hour.
- Always avoid going near any hot object in the floor, because your foot is slow in sensing any heat before it causing damage to your foot.
- Before wearing your shoes, check any thing inside and make sure there are no sharp edges, or objects that might injure your feet.
- If you need help to take care of your feet, make an appointment with a foot doctor, also called a podiatrist.
If you are strict in your foot care, then you can be easy noticed any problem with your foot and get immediate treatment and thus avoid amputation.