Diabetes is the leading cause of limb amputations in the United States, with most cases stemming from an inability to feel a minor injury and subsequent infection. As a result, people with diabetes should never walk barefoot—even indoors.
An elevated blood sugar level in the body may lead to a condition known as diabetes. It can damage the nerves in the feet and it can be difficult to feel existing cuts, bruises, or scrapes.
Diabetics should always wear shoes in the house, even when they aren't going outside, in order to avoid possible injury to feet from objects on floors that can be stepped on or fallen upon by accident. It helps protect the feet from injuries such as cuts and bruises from sharp objects found around the home.
Don't soak your feet. Dry your feet completely and apply lotion to the top and bottom—but not between your toes, which could lead to infection. Never go barefoot. Always wear shoes and socks or slippers, even inside, to avoid injury.
Do not eat white bread, chips, and pastries, which quickly increase blood sugar. Avoid processed foods and meats as they will be rich in salt and oil. Restrict fried and fatty foods. Do not take full fat dairy products.
Also, don't soak your feet—that can dry your skin. Calluses occur more often and build up faster on the feet of people with diabetes. This is because there are high-pressure areas under the foot. Too much callus may mean that you will need therapeutic shoes and inserts.
Myth: People with diabetes can't cut their own toenails
Not true: the general advice on toenail cutting applies to everyone. If you have diabetes you should keep your nails healthy by cutting them to the shape of the end of your toes.
GOLDEN RULE #1: Wear appropriate shoes.
Even a minor cut can quickly become a serious infection when you have diabetes. We don't even recommend sandals for diabetics. Your best protection from cuts, bruises, blisters, and calluses is a cushioned, supportive athletic shoe worn with a moisture-wicking sock.
Men with diabetes are 3x more likely to have trouble getting or keeping an erection. There can be several reasons for this, such as limited blood flow, nerve damage (neuropathy) and damaged blood vessels. It can also be down to medication or just how you're feeling at the time.
Steer clear of sandals, flip-flops, or other open-toe shoes. Straps can put pressure on parts of your foot, leading to sores and blisters. Open-toe shoes can make you prone to injuries like cuts. It's also easier for gravel and small stones to get inside them.
Government sources recommend cotton and wool socks for diabetic patients to help keep feet dry. 4,5 They also reinforce the need to wear socks at all times. Many do not make specific fabric recommendations, but they do suggest that people avoid tight socks.
Poorly controlled blood sugar can damage many parts of the body, including the nerves and vessels that go to the feet. Because of this, people with diabetes have an increased risk of developing foot problems. Wearing specially designed shoes can help reduce risk and promote healthy circulation in your feet.
Most Podiatrists would agree that some time bare foot is great for airing out your feet to keep them healthy. Another benefit is that your feet can become stronger when walking on different surfaces, thus reducing your risk of injury.
Avoid shoes made entirely of rubber, which can trap moisture and lead to infection. Check for a cushioned sole. Your ideal shoe should have a thick shock-absorbing sole and reduce pressure on the bottom of your foot. Avoid sneakers that have limited cushioning in the sole and can cause ulcers or blisters.
Now, walking barefoot is not all bad. There are benefits to walking barefoot on soft surfaces, such as carpeted flooring, grass, or sand. Walking on these surfaces helps to improve circulation which increases the nourishment of nerves, muscles, and bone of the foot and helps minimize swelling of the lower extremities.
How does diabetes cause foot problems? Foot problems are common in people with diabetes. They can happen over time when high blood sugar damages the nerves and blood vessels in the feet. The nerve damage, called diabetic neuropathy, can cause numbness, tingling, pain, or a loss of feeling in your feet.
The use of full-strength betadine, peroxide, whirlpools and soaking are not recommended, as this could lead to further complications.
Although rare, nerve damage from diabetes can lead to changes in the shape of your feet, such as Charcot's foot. Charcot's foot may start with redness, warmth, and swelling. Later, bones in your feet and toes can shift or break, which can cause your feet to have an odd shape, such as a “rocker bottom.”
Medicare will cover the treatment of corns, calluses, and toenails once every 61 days in persons having certain systemic conditions. Examples of such conditions include: Diabetes with peripheral arterial disease, peripheral arterial disease, peripheral neuropathy, and chronic phlebitis.
Drink in Moderation
Most people with diabetes can enjoy some alcohol. Rules are the same as for everyone else: one drink per day for women; two for men. But you need to know how alcohol affects your blood sugar. A sugary drink might spike your blood sugar.
Podiatrists play a key role in the early detection and treatment of foot problems in people with diabetes. Neuropathy (nerve damage), arthropathy (joint damage), vasculopathy (blood vessel damage), and other complications can be avoided or delayed with annual comprehensive foot exams and treatment if needed.
Magnesium appears to help manage blood sugar levels among people with diabetes. Also, those who tend to consume less magnesium typically have poorer blood sugar regulation and a higher risk of type 2 diabetes than people who consume higher amounts ( 2 , 3 , 4 ).
Biking, walking, running, swimming, and aerobics are good options. The most important thing is to be sure you're moving your toes, feet, ankles, and legs. Quit smoking: Smoking hardens your arteries, much like PAD, and decreases your circulation. Stopping can help improve how well your blood reaches your legs and feet.
How can Epsom salt be dangerous for those with diabetes? There are several potentials dangers of soaking in Epsom salt for those who have type 2 diabetes. One reason is that Epsom salt can cause a drying effect on the skin. This can therefore cause the skin to crack, and leave the broken skin vulnerable to infection.