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PODIATRIST TOP TIPS ON A HEALTHY FOOTCARE REGIME FOR PEOPLE WITH DIABETES
Friday 14th November marks World Diabetes Day – a global campaign to put a spotlight on improving care and support so that everyone with diabetes has the chance to live well. For the estimated 5.8 million1 in the UK living with diabetes (an all-time high), everyone’s experience is different, but there are physical and mental challenges. What many people don’t release is that as well as eye problems and nerve damage, one of the complications of the condition can be footcare problems.
Here, podiatrist and Brand Ambassador for Footmender®All in One, Molly Chilvers BS.c MRCPod answers 3 key questions everyone needs to know about the importance of maintaining a healthy footcare regime for people with diabetes.
- How does diabetes affect the feet?
Diabetes can cause foot problems for several reasons. High blood sugar levels can damage the nerves which in turn can reduce feeling in the feet, often referred to as neuropathy. You may also experience pain and/or cramps in your legs or feet.
Those living with diabetes often have circulatory problems, which can lead to a limited or poor blood supply to the feet which has the potential for the body to have problems healing cuts or sores. Diabetics very often suffer from dry skin, calluses and corns on their feet, as well as heel fissures.
Understanding how diabetes affects the feet can help you to avoid complications, and adopting a healthy footcare regime can ensure you are on top of any potential issues.
- What is a healthy footcare regime?
Those living with diabetes should check their feet daily for any potential problems. If you struggle to lift your feet, then it’s possible to check the soles of your feet by using a mirror or, if your eyesight isn’t as good as it used to be, then ask a healthcare professional or family member to check your feet for you.
Make sure to cut toenails regularly but not too short or too low down along the sides. Keep them trim by using nail clippers, cutting straight across and then use an emery board to file down any corners or rough ends.
I also advise using a foot cream specially formulated for your feet, like Footmender® All in One Diabetic which has been specially developed for diabetics and is available to buy directly or on prescription (ask your GP or diabetes specialist). The Class IIa medical device is a multi-functional footcare product with a unique, patented formula which treats and heals dry skin, calluses, corns and heel fissures on diabetics’ feet simultaneously. One product is enough – there’s no need for foot baths, foot files, exfoliating socks and various creams, so treatment is therefore easier and less costly. You will see an effect within a few days, often after the very first treatment. Once the desired result is achieved, Footmender® All in One Diabetic only needs to be applied twice a week as part of a maintenance programme, to keep your feet in good condition.
Making sure the feet are protected with proper-fitting shoes and socks is also important. Protruding seams and/or holes in socks can aggravate the feet, and choose broad fitting, low heeled shoes to provide maximum comfort when walking.
Make sure to maintain continuous contact with your healthcare provider and have a doctor, diabetes specialist nurse, or medical podiatrist examine your feet at least once a year.
- What should I do if I notice a problem?
If you do notice something wrong, it’s really important to call your GP surgery straight away and explain your situation. If you can’t get through, call 111 for advice.
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