How to Care for Your Feet when You Have Diabetes

Many diabetics suffer from poor circulation, which can cause them to lose feeling in their feet and other appendages. When diabetics lose sensation in certain parts of their bodies, they become more susceptible to injury, infection, and illness. For that reason, it is important that diabetics regularly check their feet for signs of injury. After all, loss of feeling in the feet is one of the common side effects of diabetes.

Why diabetics lose feeling in their feet

Neuropathy is the medial term associated with a condition in which an individual will lose sensation in one part of the body, according to WebMD. Most often, diabetics experience this loss of feeling first in their feet. When a diabetic loses sensation in a body part, it is generally the result of poor circulation. When a body part does not receive ample blood flow, the nerves in that part of the body are not able to receive nutrients and they die. Without nerves that function, the body cannot experience sensations.

Because the feet are so far away from the heart, it can be difficult for blood to adequately circulate all the way to the feet. For this reason, the feet are often one of the first body parts to experience sensation loss.

Negative side effects of poor circulation

When an individual loses feeling in a body part, such as the feet, the individual is unable to feel blisters, tightness in shoes, cuts, abrasions, and even breaks, sometimes. Therefore, it is important that individuals with diabetes regularly monitor their pain sensation in their feet so that they are aware if they begin to lose any sensations. When a diabetic loses feeling in his or her feet, it is important that he or she pay careful attention to the condition of the feet.

There are a few products that are available for individuals that need to monitor and care for their feet.

Gel therapy socks

Gel therapy socks are designed to provide a cushion for the foot on which the foot can rest throughout the day. This protective cushion helps to ensure that the foot stays comfortable and has improved circulation. It also helps to protect the foot from cuts and abrasions.

Self-examination mirror

A self-examination mirror for the foot should come with a rod extender tool that helps diabetics to see the bottom and sides of their feet. Using this tool, diabetics should look for cuts, blisters, and signs of infection, according to the American Diabetes Association.

Arch support

Many diabetics cannot feel the strain of fallen arches. Therefore, they are unaware when their feet become tired and start to collapse. An arch support is an excellent tool for diabetics that helps to ensure that their arches - and connecting muscles - stay strong and in-place.

It is important that diabetics pay close attention to the condition of their feet by regularly monitoring them for cuts, blisters, and infection. By monitoring their feet, they can help to ensure that they stay mobile and healthy longer.

Sources:
www.webmd.com
www.diabetes.org
www.imtypefree.com