For people with diabetes, looking after your feet is more than a routine – it’s a crucial step in protecting your overall health.High blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation, particularly in your feet. These conditions raise the risk of infection, ulcers, and even amputations if issues are not addressed.
At Baines Hospital, our diabetic foot specialists in Bengaluru frequently attend to patients with avoidable complications of the foot. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of caring for your feet at home -safely and effectively.
Why Diabetic Foot Care Is So Important
Diabetes weakens your body’s healing power, particularly in parts of your body that have poor blood circulation such as your feet. A tiny cut, blister, or crack can become a severe infection if not treated.
Preventive foot care, therefore, is necessary – it prevents problems from arising in the first place and prevents complications such as:
- – Foot ulcers
- – Skin infections
- – Fungal nails
- – Gangrene
- – Amputation
By sticking to a routine of home care, you can safeguard your feet and be ahead of potential complications.
Tips for People with Diabetes to Take Care of Their Feet Every Day
1. Examine Your Feet Daily
- – Check the tops, soles, heels, and between your toes for:
- – Cuts, cracks, or blisters
- – Redness, swelling, or heat
- – Dry or peeling skin
- – Any change in color
- – Ingrown toenails or abnormal nail color
Tip: Use a mirror or enlist the help of a family member if you cannot see the soles of your feet.
2. Wash and Dry Your Feet Gently
Gently wash your feet every day with warm water and mild soap to keep them clean and healthy. Dry them gently, particularly between the toes, where moisture can cause fungal infections.
Avoid: Soaking your feet for extended periods – it can dry out the skin.
3. Moisturize – But Not Between the Toes
Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to keep your skin soft and prevent dryness or cracking. Avoid applying lotion between your toes, as it can lead to fungal infections.
4. Trim Nails Carefully
Trim toenails straight across and don’t cut into corners to avoid ingrown nails. If your toenails are thick or difficult to cut, have a podiatrist trim them rather than risk cutting yourself.
5. Always Wear Footwear – Even Indoors
Never walk barefoot, even indoors. Wear comfortable, well-fitting slippers or soft shoes to cushion your feet in case of accidental knocks.
Pro tip: Opt for cushioned, well-arch-supported shoes without tight areas. Baines Hospital professionals can support you in selecting diabetic footwear designed for your comfort and protection.
6. Keep Feet Warm, But Not Hot
In cold weather, wear socks to keep your feet warm – but never use hot water bottles or heating pads, since decreased sensation from neuropathy might burn you without you knowing it.
7. Never Self-Treat Corns, Calluses, or Warts
Never use over-the-counter corn or wart removers. These can cause harm to your skin and produce ulcers. Always have a diabetic foot doctor take care of these safely.
8. Pay Attention to Signs of Trouble
See a diabetic foot expert right away if you observe:
- – A wound or sore that does not heal
- – Blue or black color
- – Pus, bad smell, or swelling that is worse than before
- – Fever or feeling cold with pain in the foot
- – Loss of sensation or numbness that comes suddenly
- – Early action will help avoid surgery or amputation.
When to See a Diabetic Foot Specialist
Even if your feet appear and feel okay, it’s worth making regular foot check-ups with a specialist. You should certainly see a diabetic foot specialist if:
- – You’ve had diabetes for many years.
- – You’ve had a previous foot ulcer or infection.
- – You get tingling, burning, or numbness in your feet.
- – Your nails are thickened, discolored, or difficult to cut.
- – You have difficulty checking your own feet
At Baines Hospital, we provide comprehensive diabetic foot care – from daily screenings and nerve tests to wound care and education.
Why Trust Baines Healthcare with Diabetic Foot Care in Bengaluru?
Our diabetic foot clinic is the most reputed in the area and provides:
- – Experienced podiatrists and wound management professionals.
- – State of the art equipment for neuropathy and circulation tests.
- – Personalized footwear advice and fittings.
- – Preventive education to protect your feet at home.
- – Compassionate, individualized care every step of the way
With early treatment and appropriate care, most diabetic foot complications are avoidable – and we’re here to assist you every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your feet at home when you have diabetes takes little time – but it can make a big difference in keeping you healthy and mobile. Taking a few minutes a day can keep you out of serious trouble and on the move for years to come.
If you are doubtful about your feet or require specialist advice, make a diabetic foot check-up appointment today at Baines Hospital – your feet will appreciate it.