Even with diabetes, you can manage your way to a healthier lifestyle

By:  Joe Dyament, C.Ped

One of the most difficult and common effects of diabetes is foot problems. Many problems such as aches in your feet, ankles, knees, lower back and even your shoulders stem from improper care of your feet and improperly fitted shoes.  And if you have diabetes, you need to pay special attention to your foot health to avoid serious complications.

With diabetes, you may experience decreased sensitivity in your feet, making you less aware of the source of these pains.  Taking a proactive, preventative action like wearing supportive shoes, combined with the proper diabetic insert will allow your feet to bear your weight properly, redistribute areas of high plantar pressure and ensure your foot functions dynamically from heel to toe.

It is well documented that what you wear on your feet can greatly improve the health of your feet, which in turn can help improve your overall health.  However, those that have diabetes or any other type of medical condition know all too well that the effects of your diet can either help or hinder your road to an optimum balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Research has shown that diabetic wounds, such as foot ulcers, can be treated and, in some cases, prevented by making some dietary adjustments with the help of your doctor or a registered dietician.  Many of our customers that have diabetes have found that proper footwear coupled with an improved diet have led to an increase in energy and an improved quality of life.

However, ignoring foot problems can lead to serious consequences including diminished mobility and some can even increase the potential for amputation.  It is for this reason you must be diligent with your diet and wellbeing.  For example, injuries to the feet may heal poorly due to poor circulation, reduced oxygen and nutrition supplied to the feet.  Peripheral Neuropathy is insensitivity or a loss of ability to feel pain, heat and cold at the feet.  Therefore, you may not be aware of minor cuts, scrapes, blisters or pressure sores from ill-fitted shoes.

Here are some guidelines I review with each patient or customer should they present with diabetes:

• Inspect your feet daily.  When you visit your doctor, kick off your shoes to be sure he/she looks them over.
• Always inspect the inside of your shoes before putting them on. Shake them out!
• See a podiatrist for routine foot care including treating calluses, corns and trimming nails.  NEVER attempt to treat these yourself!
• Always wear proper fitting shoes and socks, even in the house.
• Call your doctor immediately if you have a cut, sore or blister older than a day.
• DON’T walk barefoot, expose your feet to excessive heat or cold, wear thong sandals, use cream between your toes (unless prescribed by your doctor) or cross your leg  for long periods of time.

Finally, you should know that Medicare and many insurance companies will provide their customers with one pair of diabetic shoes and three sets of heat-molded inserts per calendar year if you meet their requirements.  You can go to www.footsolutions.com , check with your primary physician or call your insurance provider for details.

Thanks for reading and I wish your better health through your feet!