Diabetic neuropathy results from high blood sugar in individuals with diabetes mellitus. Diabetic neuropathy symptoms include numbness, weakness, and urinary anomalies. Here are some diabetic foot care tips for neuropathy:
Early Treatment
Neuropathy treatments may relieve pain and decrease numbness to restore the functionality of your feet. Diabetic foot neuropathy is categorized into four different types, identifiable through symptoms. Peripheral neuropathy affects the legs and feet first and is signaled by muscle weakness, sharp pains, and foot infections. Proximal neuropathy causes severe buttock pain and difficulty standing from a sitting position. Mononeuropathy is signified by front thigh, shin, and foot pain. If you notice issues with your foot, early treatment helps control their severity.
Regular Foot Examinations
Regular foot examinations prevent problems like skin ulcers and permanent sores. Check your feet daily for bruises, cracks, and blisters. If your foot has signs of any of these conditions, visit a qualified podiatrist for a thorough examination. They may craft personalized treatment plans to address and heal foot damage and infections.
Well-Fitted Footwear
Wear cotton socks and well-cushioned shoes to enhance your comfort and foot health. Stretchy socks allow for unrestricted circulation throughout your legs. Cotton materials might help reduce numbness and tingling by supporting the joints and muscles in your foot and lower leg. Avoid footwear that causes friction and irritation to your feet through excessive rubbing. Materials with moisture-wicking capabilities may keep the feet dry and prevent the formation of blisters. Avoid open-toe shoes on occasions where you might be exposed to debris or tripping hazards. Scrapes and cuts on the foot can trigger infections that require medical intervention.
Regular Exercise
Exercise improves blood flow, lowers blood sugar, and keeps the heart healthy. Aim for 80 minutes of vigorous or 160 minutes of weekly moderate aerobic activity. Take a break from sitting every 30 minutes to get active. You can combine vigorous and moderate aerobic activities, depending on your preference. Consult a physical therapist to determine safe exercises to avoid harming your feet. If your feet often feel numb, walking is safer than other activities such as running or aerobic steps. If you have a sore foot, avoid exercises that add weight to the injury.
Proper Diet
A healthy diet controls blood sugar, slowing the effects of diabetic neuropathy. Eat a balanced diet containing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and portioning your meals to maintain a healthy weight. The deficiency of vitamin B12 may cause damage to the myelin sheaths protecting the nerves in your feet. Incorporate foods rich in vitamin B12, which include poultry, beef, eggs, fish, and milk.
Avoid Alcohol
Heavy alcohol use causes malabsorption of nutrients needed for healthy nerves. Alcohol-related neuropathy is characterized by nerve pain, burning, and cramps in the arms and legs. The symptoms build up over time with the continued use of alcohol. Excessive alcohol may damage the nerve cells, including in the feet.
Good Hygiene
Diabetic foot care is enhanced with proper hygiene. Clean your legs and feet daily with soap and warm water, and dry them thoroughly with a clean towel. Moisturizing them prevents cracking, but avoid using lotion between the toes since it will keep the space damp. Trim your toes straight across and file the edges to make them smooth. Proper toe-trimming techniques prevent ingrown toenails and other painful conditions. Use sanitized cutters to reduce the risk of infections. Wear shoes or slippers in public places like communal showers and gyms.
Learn More About Diabetic Foot Care
Living with diabetic neuropathy can be managed with regular examinations and healthy routines. Self-care measures keep your blood pressure and sugar levels at safe levels. Contact a qualified podiatric team to learn about their recommended diabetic foot care.
