Protecting Diabetic Feet

Diabetic foot ulcers are incredibly difficult to treat and unfortunately can lead to infection and possibly amputation of a toe, foot, or even leg.

Of course the best thing to do is prevent the ulcers in the first place.  But understanding why diabetic foot ulcers happen is also important.  Diabetes damages the nerves of the legs and the feet, as well as impairs circulation to the lower extremities.  This causes what is called diabetic neuropathy, which causes numbness to the feet and legs.  This can also occur in the hands.  This numbness is dangerous because a person can step on an object like a nail or glass and not know it, causing a wound that is left unattended.  This wound can then become larger and infected, leading to serious problems.  Even getting small splinters can create large wounds.

Wearing properly fitting shoes is extremely important.  Shoes that are too tight or rub can cause blisters, which lead to wounds.  A person with neuropathy may not realize their shoes are too tight, so it is wise to go to a shoe store that specializes in diabetic footwear to be properly fitted.  Diabetics should never go barefooted.

It is also necessary for diabetics to keep the skin on their feet moisturized and soft.  Dry skin cracks and leads to wounds that may not be felt by a diabetic.  Using an intense emollient moisturizer is very important to keep the skin soft and resistant to cracking.  POL Cream is superior for diabetic foot care.  Applying POL Cream twice a day will keep skin soft and help prevent cracking.  As with any moisturizer, apply to all surfaces of the feet, but not between the toes.

All people with diabetes should inspect their feet daily using a mirror to see the bottom and all areas of their feet.  Look for reddened areas, blisters, cracks, foreign objects, open areas, or anything abnormal.  Get immediate medical attention from a physician or podiatrist at even the slightest sign there may be a problem.

Protection and prevention is definitely the best approach to diabetic foot care.

Denise Skinner, RN, BSN, WCC
V.P. Clinical Services, Cooperlabs