World Diabetes Day: 7 Doctor-Approved Tips To Prevent Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Diabetic foot ulcer is a common side-effect of uncontrolled diabetes. On World Diabetes Day today, a leading endocrinologist shares tips to prevent this painful symptom.

Diabetes is a debilitating condition, wherein the body has trouble regulating its blood sugar levels. It can cause a lot of health complications, including nerve damage and poor blood circulation, leading to skin sore or ulcer in the feet, warns Dr Kalyan Kumar Gangopadhyay, consultant, diabetes and endocrinology at CMRI, Kolkata.

Dr Gangopadhyay says that with around 11.4 per cent of the Indian population being affected by diabetes, diabetic foot ulcer may be one of the most common foot injuries. “Proper management of diabetes and regular foot care can significantly prevent foot ulcers, which can otherwise be difficult to treat. Diabetic foot ulcers can also be prevented by regular medical supervision to make sure any type of blister, cut, or scrape does not go unnoticed,” the doctor adds.

Diabetes-Induced Complications In Feet

According to the doctor, minor cuts and ulcers are frequently painless, but neuropathy in the foot causes a lack of sensitivity that makes them invisible. Furthermore, high blood pressure and cholesterol from diabetes can cause vascular issues by narrowing the arteries and lowering blood flow to the feet. “Due to their distance from the heart and increased susceptibility to inadequate blood flow, the feet are especially at risk of tissue death (gangrene).”

But, by taking precautions, one can potentially prevent such serious health problems, he adds.

7 Key Tips For Diabetic Foot Care

Here are some essential tips to prevent foot complications:

Daily foot inspection: Cuts, sores or unusual darkening are initial signs of foot ulcers. Also, fungal infection between toes is common. Check your feet every day. If you find it hard to examine your feet, use a mirror or seek assistance.
Moisturise regularly: Daily moisturisation helps prevent skin cracking, which can be a source of infection. Opt for fragrance-free moisturisers, such as glycerine, but avoid applying it between the toes to reduce moisture buildup that can encourage fungal growth.
Careful nail trimming: Trim your nails straight across, without cutting down the sides, to prevent injury. Avoid using blades and consider filing sharp corners to reduce the risk of accidental cuts.
Avoid walking barefoot: Being barefoot increases the risk of unnoticed injuries. Make sure to wear shoes, even indoors, to avoid possible cuts.
Choose appropriate footwear: Ill-fitting shoes or socks can cause blisters, which may develop into ulcers. Opt for shoes that are broad, with a deep, rounded toe area. Go for low-heeled, lace-up, or buckle-fastened shoes to prevent sliding that causes friction injuries.
Quit smoking: Smoking narrows the arteries further, worsening circulation and increasing the risk of gangrene. Quit smoking to protect vascular health.
Manage blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol:Effective management of these factors prevents nerve and vascular damage, maintaining healthy blood circulation and reducing the risk of complications.