Diabetes mellitus (DM) is becoming more and more common, mostly due to the increased overweight population and unhealthy lifestyle of people. It represents several diseases in which high blood glucose levels over time can damage the nerves, kidneys, eyes, and blood vessels. Diabetes can also decrease the body’s ability to fight infection. Foot problems commonly develop in people with diabetes and can quickly become serious.
Each human body and its Biomechanics is unique in all respect. Therefore to understand and treat ‘Diabetic Foot’ the science demands detailed biomechanical evaluation from “TOE to HEAD” to assess, prescribe and to provide customized foot care, footwear, orthotics and accessories to ensure “Safe and Secure Environment”.
The evaluation includes examining and identifying:
Foot and ankle conditions, alignment and deformities
High pressure areas, hot spots and altered sensations causing foot complications
Lower Limb and spine posture
Gait pathologies
Exact foot size by length & width
Existing footwear analysis
PATIENT EDUCATION
It is imperative that a Diabetic patient takes care of his Foot.
Improper & ill-fitting footwear and barefoot walking are major contributors to the diabetes foot ulcerations and other complications.
Footwear analysis is an essential and integral part of diabetic foot examination.
Walking – frequent walks to improve blood circulation
Preventive Pain Management i.e. Stop your physical activity the moment pain starts.
Inspect your feet daily for corn, callus, blisters, bleeding, or lesions between toes. Use a mirror to see the bottom of the foot and the heel.
Have a family or friend check your feet if you are unable to do so.
Have regular foot examination by your diabetic foot care specialist. Always remove both shoes and stockings when visiting your doctor.
Wash feet daily, using warm – not hot – water and a mild soap. Avoid soaking your feet and be sure to dry well between the toes.
Moisturize your feet with cream liberally, but avoid between the toes
Each week or when needed, cut your toe nails to the shape of your toes and file the edges with an emery board.
Inspect the soles and inside your shoes for foreign objects before putting them on.
Shoes should be properly measured, comfortable, and easy to put on at the time of purchase.
Do NOT use hot water bottles or heating pads to warm your feet.
Use warm socks instead.
Do NOT soak your feet.
Do NOT use acids or chemical corn removers.
Do NOT perform “bathroom surgery” on corns, calluses, or
Ingrowntoenails.
Test the temperature of the bath water with your ELBOW or THERMOMETER. Do NOT let hot water drip onto your toes.
Do NOT use hot water bottles or heating pads to warm your feet. Use warm socks instead.
Call your foot care specialist immediately if you detect a new lesion or if your foot becomes swollen, red, or painful. Stay off your foot until you see your doctor.
If you’ve lost sensation, do NOT walk barefooted in the house, outside, or at the beach.
Maintain good diabetes control and do not smoke
Always wear well-fitted stockings or socks with your shoes. Padded socks may reduce pressure and be more protective.
Inspect the soles and inside your shoes for foreign objects before putting them on.
Shoes should be properly measured, comfortable, and easy to put on at the time of purchase.
Wear leather shoes with adequate room for the toes. Running or athletic shoes are best for recreational walking.
Change shoes every four to six hours.
Wear leather shoes with adequate room for the toes. Running or athletic shoes are best for recreational walking.
Learn all you can about your diabetes and how it can affect your feet.
