Diabetics should always wear shoes in the house, even when they aren't going outside, in order to avoid possible injury to feet from objects on floors that can be stepped on or fallen upon by accident. It helps protect the feet from injuries such as cuts and bruises from sharp objects found around the home.
Avoid soaking your feet, as this can lead to dry skin. Dry your feet gently, especially between the toes. Moisturize your feet and ankles with lotion or petroleum jelly. Do not put oils or creams between your toes — the extra moisture can lead to infection.
If you're diabetic, we recommend you wear socks and shoes at all times. If you're sporting bare feet, it's much more likely you'll step on a pebble, stick, or even a piece of glass that cuts through your skin. You won't feel especially hot pavement and could experience a serious burn.
Walking without foot protection can be especially dangerous for those with diabetes and suffer from peripheral neuropathy. Not wearing shoes puts you at risk for injuries to the bottoms of your feet that you may not feel due to the loss of sensation from nerve damage.
Choosing shoes made with leather, canvas or suede will allow for adequate air circulation, she adds. If you have trouble getting shoes off or on, look for a pair with Velcro straps that can be easily adjusted. Finally, if you can't find a perfect fit, custom insoles can be a key way to manage foot pain due to diabetes.
Diabetic shoes decrease the risk of diabetic foot ulcers and thereby reduce amputations. They provide support and protection while minimizing pressure points on the feet. They also have extra depth to accommodate diabetic inserts. There are many styles to choose from, and the shoes look much like any other shoe.
So, when buying new shoes, always check their fit carefully, especially if you have neuropathy. Get feet measured and new shoes fitted properly. Neuropathy increases your risk of falls so leather shoes that fasten with velcro, laces or buckles are recommended Always try on both shoes before buying.
Diabetes are more prone to infection, and fungi and bacteria can transfer from clipping or foot care tools to any open wounds.
Tingling, burning, or pain in your feet. Loss of sense of touch or ability to feel heat or cold very well. A change in the shape of your feet over time. Loss of hair on your toes, feet, and lower legs.
It can be an early sign of so-called "diabetic belly," a build-up of visceral fat in your abdomen which may be a symptom of type 2 diabetes and can increase your chances of developing other serious medical conditions.
Diabetic socks are not necessary for everyone with diabetes but can provide benefits for those who need them. Those who can benefit from wearing diabetic socks instead of regular socks have: Sweaty or moist feet. Change in color of feet or are experiencing blisters or a fungal infection.
Chronically elevated blood sugars can also damage nerves that tell muscles how to move. This can lead to muscle weakness. You may have difficulty walking or getting up from a chair. You may have difficulty grabbing things or carrying things with your hands.
When you have diabetes, high glucose levels in the blood can damage nerves and blood vessels. Because the nerves and blood vessels supplying the feet are so long and delicate, the feet — and especially the toes — often get affected first.
Typically, epsom salt soaks are not recommended for people with diabetes. The primary reason is that such soaks can dry out the feet. When the skin is dry it is more vulnerable to cracking and chafing, which can lead to skin lesions and wounds, which if not properly attended to can lead to ulcerations.
Do not eat white bread, chips, and pastries, which quickly increase blood sugar. Avoid processed foods and meats as they will be rich in salt and oil. Restrict fried and fatty foods. Do not take full fat dairy products.
Diabetic dermopathy
The spots look like red or brown round patches or lines in the skin and are common in people with diabetes. They appear on the front of your legs (your shins) and are often confused with age spots. The spots don't hurt, itch, or open up.
Wear socks or stockings with shoes. Wear socks without seams. Avoid tight-fitting socks and garters. Wear socks in bed if your feet are cold at night.
The American Diabetes Association recommends that people with diabetes consume fruit in moderation, including bananas. This doesn't mean you should ignore those carbohydrates, but you should consider how many carbs you need daily.
A person with diabetes should include a variety of fresh, whole foods in their diet, such as nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables. Bananas are a safe and nutritious fruit for people with diabetes to eat in moderation as part of a balanced, individualized eating plan.
If you have diabetes, you should not wear regular shoes. Diabetic shoes can help you preserve your limbs because nonhealing wounds can cause a severe infection that warrants having an amputation.
If you are diabetic and have Medicare and Medicaid, you could be eligible for a pair of shoes and 3 pairs of moldable insoles. It is that easy! All you have to do is bring in your insurance cards and a prescription from your doctor. We will contact your doctor for any additional information we need for billing.
Steer clear of sandals, flip-flops, or other open-toe shoes. Straps can put pressure on parts of your foot, leading to sores and blisters. Open-toe shoes can make you prone to injuries like cuts. It's also easier for gravel and small stones to get inside them.