Diabetic patients are the hardest and most challenging patients that I see in my practice. I have one rule for my diabetic patient; “do not touch your foot; it is my foot and I am loaning it to you.” The smallest cut, blister, or callous can results in the loss of your foot and leg.
Diabetes is a chronic illness that affects a very large population. It is a metabolic disease in which the body does not produce enough insulin resulting in delay of healing and difficulty in fighting infections. People with diabetes frequently loose sensations in their feet due to diabetic nerve damage. When this happens, cuts in the skin can occur, the diabetic doesn’t feel the injury and the result can be a severe foot infection. If you have diabetes, you may not notice seams in the shoes or socks rubbing the foot causing irritation and a sore. Weak joints can change the way you walk and thus the friction can cause a callus or blister. Diabetics also suffer from decrease circulation and this can also cause a major problem.
Diabetic warning signs are:
1. Changes in skin color
2. Changes in skin temperature
3. Pain in legs when walking
4. Swelling foot or ankle
5. Open and slow to heal sores
6. Cracks around the heel
The best defense against diabetic foot problems is routine exam by you,
your family and a podiatrist. The family will check for any open
sores while the podiatrist will check for potential problems. Hopefully,
the podiatrist will recognize and treat any problems before they become
severe and chronic.
Each day you should inspect your foot for any changes as described above. A hand mirror can be used to check the bottom of your feet. Never cut your own toenails and DONOT pick out your own ingrown toenails. Wear wide soft-shoes and check your shoes for nails and pebbles in the shoe. Do not wear tight garters or socks. Stay active. Walking is great exercise for the diabetic foot.
If you have any questions, contact Dr. Levin for further advice.
For more written information,
click here.
|
|
|
|
|