Preventive care is an essential part of living with diabetes. A person's inability to adequately process blood sugar can impact many bodily systems and functions, and some of the most common diabetes-related problems have to do with the feet. Nerve conditions and circulation problems stemming from diabetes result in reduced sensation in these extremities, and this opens the doors to a litany of potentially dangerous health issues. With this in mind, here are several ways diabetics can take better care of their feet.

A Guide to Diabetic Foot Care

1. Perform Daily Inspections

Every day, check your feet for cuts, bruises, blisters, irritation, and swelling. Use a hand mirror to inspect the bottoms of your feet thoroughly as well. Because many people with diabetes have lost all or some feeling in their feet, they may not realize that they have been injured there. Without treatment, it could become infected.

2. Wash & Moisturize the Feet Regularly

Keeping your feet clean should be a priority of your preventive care routine if you have diabetes. Wash them each day, and dry them well, being sure to get between each toe. Then apply a light layer of moisturizer. Diabetes-damaged nerve endings cannot tell the feet to sweat, so dry skin is common. Be sure to rub the lotion on the tops and bottoms of the foot, but try to avoid the areas between each toe as fungus could develop.

3. Encourage Blood Flow to the Feet

Physical activity, even in small amounts, will help encourage adequate blood flow to the feet. Lower-impact cardio exercises like a brisk walk or some gentle yoga can be helpful, but discuss any exercise plan with your doctor first. In the meantime, practice preventive care by elevating your feet and wiggling your toes when sitting down for long intervals and moving your ankles in circles for five minutes several times a day.

If you have any diabetes-related issues or need some preventive care advice, trust the medical professionals at Santiam Hospital. Since 1953, they have been treating patients throughout the Mid-Willamette Valley with primary, emergency, and specialized care services, which you can view on their website. To ask questions or schedule an appointment, call them at (503) 769-2175.