8 Ways to Fight Diabetic Foot Pain

Foot pain in diabetics is caused by neuropathy, or damage to the nerves in the foot. Often diabetic neuropathy results in numbness,to the point of being unaware of damage, ulcerations, or even gangrene (tissue death). For others, the neuropathy causes excruciating pain; they are extremely sensitive to anything even lightly brushing the foot. The pain has been described as burning or tingling.

Unfortunately, having diabetes greatly increases the probability of losing toes or even the entire foot. The best thing to do is prevent damage as much as possible to reduce foot pain caused by neuropathy.

1. The American Diabetes Association found that diabetic nerve pain is drastically reduced when blood sugar levels are controlled within normal limits. You can greatly help yourself by monitoring your glucose levels.

2. Always protect your feet. Socks need to be soft, non-restrictive, not too loose (they may bunch up inside a shoe and press the skin). Shoes should always be worn with socks. Nylons do not protect the foot well.

3. See a podiatrist for a complete exam; you may get some relief with custom orthotic devices. Report any change of sensation. Your podiatrist can provide expert advice regarding foot wear as well. If you have any foot deformities like bunions or hammertoes, it may be beneficial to repair them.

4. Wash feet gently and thoroughly with warm water; test the water temperature first. Be sure to dry completely, and inspect between the toes, the back and the under surface for any signs of pressure or infection.

5. Moisturize the skin. Diabetic foot skin tends to be dry from high levels of glucose, and dryness leads to cracks. Cracked skin is easier for bacteria to invade, and foot infections are painful and harder to cure in diabetics. Avoid over-moisturizing between the toes.

6. Good foot care includes keeping the nails trimmed. Cut them straight across, and not so short that they may bleed. Get help if you are not sure. Gently treat calloused areas with a pumice stone. Having the foot smooth helps the sock not irritate the skin.

7. Improve circulation to the feet with exercise that does not impact your feet: cycling, swimming, and simple yoga are good ones to try. Circulation improves blood flow and helps reduce neuropathy.

8. Be sure you follow up! For diabetic foot pain it is a daily routine to keep as comfortable as possible, and to prevent further problems. Treat your feet like the valuable possessions they are.

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