Diabetes is one of the leading chronic conditions. This condition occurs when the sugar levels in the bloodstream are too high. Do you know that individuals with diabetes are at greater risk of foot problems? Over time the high glucose level can damage the blood vessels and nerves in your feet. Consequently, you will experience reduced sensitivity in your foot that exposes you to soreness and even foot ulcers. The good news is that certain lifestyle modifications can help you lower your chances of Newnan diabetic feet. Below are tips you should adopt to care for your feet if you have diabetes.
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Wash Your Feet
Keeping your feet clean can make a great difference. Use clean water and mild soap to wash your feet more often. Avoid using hot water since it can damage your skin. After washing your skin, it is good to dry it using a gentle towel. This way, you reduce the chances of bacterial infections that thrive in moist skin, especially between the toes.
Get Moving
Physical exercise is integral when it comes to maintaining foot health. Notably, exercise helps to boost blood circulation to the legs. Proper circulation will help improve recovery in case you have sore feet. Engage in moderate exercises like walking and light jogging for at least half an hour daily. Whenever developing an exercise plan, you should consider your body limits.
Trim Your Nails
The long nails can act as the breeding places for fungi and bacteria. In addition, you risk hurting your feet’ skin if you have longer nails. Therefore, you should trim your nails more often. Avoid cutting your nails too short since you could increase the risk of ingrown toenails. After cutting your nail, you should file them to facilitate the evenness as the nails start growing again.
Wear the Correct Shoes
Walking barefoot can expose your feet to injuries. No matter how fine the soil texture is, blistering on your feet can develop due to poor circulation. Therefore, you should always have footwear when outdoors. Wear shoes that give your foot ample room to avoid excessive pressure on the toes. Comfortable shoes will also help you maintain stability when standing or walking.
Check Your Feet Regularly
Diabetic neuropathy can reduce sensation in the feet. Consequently, you will be more predisposed to scratches and injuries without noticing. As a golden rule, you should always keep your feet in check. You can use the magnifying hand mirror to see the bottom part of your feet. Once you notice wounds and blistering, you should talk to your doctor.
Stop Smoking
Another reason you should quit smoking is to keep your feet healthy. Notably, cigarette chemicals constrict the blood vessels carrying blood to the legs. Consequently, you will experience poor wound healing due to reduced oxygen and nutrients in your lower extremities. If you are a smoker, you should talk with your doctor about the measures to help you kick off this habit.
Foot problems are common among diabetic individuals. Notably, the high blood sugar level damages the blood vessels and nerves in the legs exposing you to foot complications. Fortunately, the above tips can help lower your chances of developing foot problems. For example, exercise regularly to boost blood circulation in your lower extremities. Further, you should wear comfortable shoes to avoid pressure on your toes. Checking your feet more often will also help you seek timely treatment for your foot concerns.
