Studies concerning diabetes and foot care indicate that neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease are more prevalent in people that do not adhere to recommended preventative measures. You can learn about the recommended preventative measures in this article. Hopefully, that will help reduce your risk of complications.
Some patients do not understand the importance of regular check-ups and daily feet inspections. Those are the patients that are more likely to end up with a serious infection, which can result in amputation. The most common cause of amputations in the US is diabetic ulcers.
When the blood flow to the extremities is reduced, the immune system cannot fight infection. It cannot send white blood cells and extra nutrients to the area. Of course, blood flow is not always reduced in diabetics, but it is very common. Research indicates that even in people that are able to keep blood glucose levels under control, damage to the tiny blood vessels is common.
According to studies concerning diabetes and foot care, the most effective preventative measures include:
· Daily inspection of the area between the toes, the soles of the feet and the heels, in order to detect injury earlier and reduce the risk of infection · Always wearing socks and shoes, to reduce the risk of injury. A tiny splinter can result in a serious ulceration · Wearing socks and shoes designed specifically for diabetics. They are wider and deeper, reducing the risk of blisters or other injuries · Making use of customized insoles to reduce pain and provide additional support · Annual exam by a regular physician and/or regular visits with a podiatrist · Daily cleansing with warm (not hot) water and the use of a moisturizing cream, being careful to avoid areas between the toes
Recommendations concerning the use of a moisturizer in diabetes and foot care are due to the increased risk of infection in dry, cracked skin. Regular cleansing reduces the buildup of bacteria, which can lead to infection. Avoiding hot water is important, because of decreased sensitivity and increased risk of burns.
The decreased sensitivity is due to nerve damage. This occurs when the blood and nutrient flow to the nerves is reduced. Creams containing l-arginine may help improve blood flow to the nerve endings, which in turn would reduce intolerance of cold and normalize sensations.
Other studies concerning diabetic foot care indicate that the risk of neuropathy (nerve damage) is higher among smokers. Smoking negatively affects circulation and is generally bad for your health.
In order to avoid ingrown toenails and accompanying infection, the nails should be trimmed carefully and as straight across as possible. Special clippers are available to make trimming easier.
If you have problems with excessive perspiration, which is another common side effect, socks made of wicking material are recommended. The material pulls moisture away from the skin, which reduces the risk of fungal infection.
Researchers spend a great deal of time on the subject of diabetes and foot care, because complications can be serious. Follow their recommendations and you'll reduce your risks.
Jerome Kaplan has 30 plus years of experience in the foot health products business. He recommends everyone take foot care seriously, because minor problems today can turn into disasters when ignored. This is especially true in cases involving diabetic foot care.
There are many over-the-counter, affordable solutions that can rectify most common foot conditions. Visit his site to learn more: http://www.FootCareAide.com
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