Getting Your Diabetic Footing

Since skin is the largest organ of the body, taking care of it needs to be a constant priority. Because people with diabetes type 1 or 2 have a greater risk of skin infections, skin breakdown, and amputations, skin care cannot be neglected. If a diabetic lacks good control of their blood sugar, they are at an even high risk. Caregivers absolutely need to assess skin for people who can’t assess their own skin.

Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control state that more than 60% of non-traumatic lower extremity amputations in the United States are among those with diabetes. That is 10 times higher than people without diabetes. In addition, people who have nerve damage, due to diabetes, are less likely to feel pain. When feet or areas of the skin are damaged, wounds may heal slowly. A lack of sensitivity to pain could lead to wounds not being treated correctly, which in turn could mean severe infection, even gangrene and amputation.

So, what can be done? Cleanse the skin and feet daily with nondrying soap. The physician can recommend or order the soap that is the best option. Do not rub the skin or feet dry; instead, pat them dry. Use a mild non-perfumed lotion on the skin and feet, but it is extremely important to not use lotion between the toes. Any moisture between the toes, including lotion, will promote bacterial growth.

Inspect the skin and feet at least daily, more if someone has already had skin or feet issues or their blood sugars are out of control. The following signs require medical attention:

• Red spots
• Dry skin
• Calluses
• Flaking skin
• Cuts
• Ingrown nails

If it is difficult to see the bottom of the feet or some areas of the skin, use a mirror or have someone else look. If you feel that there is a problem or if some area of the skin or foot look different, call the physician. Remember to not cut the toenails of a person with diabetes. If nail care is required, you may want to seek attention from a podiatrists. If skin problems arise, you may want to make an appointment with a dermatologists or at a wound care center.

As we’ve already covered, diabetes increases the risk of amputation of the lower extremities. This is why special care needs to be taken to prevent foot injuries. Here are some tips:

• Never go barefoot, even for a short distance.
• Shop for shoes in the late afternoon, when your feet tend to be larger.
• Always wear comfortable shoes that have been broken in slowly.
• Wear flat shoes with good arch support and a wide toe base.
• Rarely, if ever, wear high heels.
• Wear shoes made from leather with cotton socks, with the socks preferably white.
• Shake out shoes before you put them on, this is to be sure that no object has gotten into them.
• Have a podiatrist cut nails.
• Only have a physician treat corns, calluses, or ingrown toenails. Never treat them yourself!
• Throw away heating pads and hot water bottles. These devices can burn the skin of someone with diabetes and lead to complications, including amputations.

It is also always important to seek medical advice and/or attention if you have any questions or concerns related to skin and foot care as a diabetic or someone who cares for a diabetic.