We diabetics have to take special care of our feet, or we can
find them troubled in two ways: reduced blood circulation and
nerve damage.
Here's what to look for and some prevention ideas.
Symptom:
If your feet are constantly cold, your legs are sore when you
walk, or your feet hurt in bed at night, you may be suffering
from poor blood circulation. This, in turn, can slow down the
process of healing when you have cuts or other damage to your
feet.
Prevention:
Staying physically active is one way to help improve your
circulation. You also need to control your blood fat and sugar
levels, as well as your blood pressure. And of course, don't
smoke.
Symptom:
If your feet are numb, you have a burning sensation on the soles
of your feet or pins and needles in your feet, you have signs of
possible nerve damage.
Foot nerves are the longest in our bodies and are therefore
susceptible to damage by diabetes. If these nerves are damaged,
the feelings are lessened, so we could have the cuts or blisters
that can lead to ulcers, and we wouldn't even know about it.
Prevention:
Check your feet regularly to be sure there are no signs of
injury. If you develop corns or calluses, have them treated
immediately by a podiatrist. Wash and dry carefully between your
toes, and keep your nails trimmed and smooth.
Everyone likes to have their feet pampered, but for us diabetics
it not only feels good, it also prevents serious health problems
in the future. So book that foot massage now!
About the author:
Bob Fleming suffers from Type 2 diabetes, but he does everything
he can to suffer as little as possible! Visit his website at
http://www.thediabetesinfoplace.com for informative articles and
resources, and sign up to receive
Bob's free weekly
diabetic-friendly dessert recipe!
