$Unique_ID{BRK01385}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Foot Care for Diabetics}
$Subject{diabetes mellitus foot ulcers care skin feet metabolism sugar diet
diabetics blood vessels nerves extremities blister cut gangrene toes toe
vessel nerve extremity blisters corn corns callas calluses gangrenous foot
ulcer diabetic}
$Volume{C-7,G-20}
$Log{
Diabetes Mellitus*0009802.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Foot Care for Diabetics


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QUESTION:  I consulted my doctor when a number of small sores developed on my
feet.  He told me that they were due to my sugar condition, as I have
diabetes.  Now I know I will have to pay more attention to my diet, but would
appreciate any suggestions you might offer concerning my feet.  What can I do
to prevent this from getting worse?

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ANSWER:  If you're already had ulcers on your feet, you know why foot care is
so important for diabetics.  As you now know, diabetes slowly destroys the
small blood vessels and nerves in the extremities, including the feet.
Because nerve damage causes the feet to lose feeling, a diabetic may never
notice a blister or a cut before it becomes seriously infected and ulcerated.
These infections are hard to fight off and gangrene can set in, which means
that toes, the whole foot, or even part of the leg must be amputated.
     The best treatment is prevention, and here prevention means careful
inspection and cleaning of the feet every single day.  If you can't see the
bottoms of your feet easily, use a mirror to check on them and don't forget to
look between your toes.  Wash your feet daily with warm (not hot) water.
Pretend you're bathing a baby and check the temperature of the water with your
elbow first, since your feet won't be able to feel it if the water is too hot.
Don't soak your feet, but wash them carefully with a soft sponge or wash
cloth.  Keep your toenails trimmed.  Clip them straight across and never cut
corns or calluses.
     Inspect the inside of your shoes daily for torn linings, pebbles, or
nails that have poked through.  Make sure your shoes fit you properly from the
day you buy them.  Always wear clean seamless socks or stockings, and avoid
wearing mended ones.  If you watch your diet carefully, take your medications
faithfully, and follow your physician's advice, these precautions should help
you avoid further problems with your feet.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.