Nearly 80,000 face limb amputation each year. Limb amputation is a frightening risk that in many cases can be prevented, but it is critical to educate yourself on what to look for. According to the American Diabetes Association, you can reduce the risk of complications by inspecting your feet every day and seeking early care if you do get a foot injury. Foot care for diabetics is critical because a common effect of diabetes is foot problems. Think you know what’s best for your feet? Take the True/False quiz below to see if you understand proper diabetic foot care.
People with diabetes should inspect their feet daily.
True. People with diabetes can develop numbness in their feet that they are unaware of. When the feet are numb, the patient can have injuries that go undetected which could develop into serious problems unless daily foot inspections are performed. Early diagnosis greatly improves the chances of successful treatment.
It is okay to go barefoot if you have diabetes.
False. People who have diabetes may also suffer from a condition called neuropathy, which is evident in a loss of sensation in the feet. A diabetic should not go barefoot because it could lead to injuries such as stepping on a piece of glass or getting a splinter. This trauma could lead to infection, trauma, and even amputation.
Toenails should always be cut straight across.
True. The corners of toenails should be visible after cutting or trimming.
It’s fine to remove calluses, corns and warts by yourself.
False. Poor vision, lack of sensation in the feet, inability to reach the area, and using the wrong tools are all reasons why you should not try to remove calluses, corns or warts by yourself. Also, over-the-counter medicines may contain acids that are harmful for your feet. Read all instruction labels carefully and have all removals done by a podiatrist.
You should be properly measured and fitted each time you buy a new pair of shoes.
True. Foot size can change over a lifetime, and it would be detrimental to wear a shoe that is too small. People quite often wear the wrong size, which can lead to injury and cause circulation problems. It is best to be fitted in the afternoon when feet are at their largest.
All people with diabetes will have a lower extremity amputation.
False. With proper foot care and preventative examinations the risk of amputation can be greatly lowered.
Only people who use insulin suffer from foot complications related to diabetes.
False. All people with diabetes need to be aware of the foot complications that are associated with diabetes.
Controlling your blood sugar level will lessen your chance of foot complications.
True. A study by the Diabetic Control Complications Trial has shown that strict control of blood sugars will decrease the risk of foot complications. Increased blood sugar levels lead to higher risk of infections and other complications for people with diabetes.
Diabetes can be cured.
False. While there is no cure yet for diabetes, there are many ways to control the disease through medication and by leading a normal life. People with diabetes should have their feet checked at least one a year by a podiatrist to ensure that they aren’t at risk for amputation.
Understanding proper diabetic foot care is essential and may help prevent amputations or other serious issues. For more tips on foot care for diabetics, leave your comments below or visit our site on diabetic foot care.
Does this sound like you? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! In fact, severe heel pain affects nearly 2 million Americans each year. Today’s expert is Laurie Sullivan- Certified Pedorthist and Owner of four Foot Solutions locations in the Washington DC area.
