Foot Health Tips for Those Who Suffer from Diabetes

As many know, diabetes can be very dangerous to your feet.   Injuries and infections may be harder to heal due to reduced blood flow. Neuropathy, and other conditions, in those who have diabetes, can result in harmful infections if left untreated.

Neuropathy is a miscommunication or dysfunction in one or many nerves. This can result in feelings of numbness, tingling, or pain, usually starting in the hands or feet. Neuropathy is very common, especially in those who suffer from diabetes. The Cleveland Clinic estimates that about 25% to 30% of Americans will experience neuropathy, affecting 60%-70% of people who have diabetes.

The following are some tips to help get you moving and gain insight into how to better take care of yourself if you suffer from diabetes.

The first step to sitting less is just being aware of how much and how often you are sitting. Once you truly see how many hours per day you spend idle, you can set goals to help you reduce that number. Sitting and being idle for long periods of time can lead to numerous health conditions such as increased blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

Wear clean, dry socks to protect your feet. If you do struggle with neuropathy it can be hard to feel when you need to change your socks after a workout due to sweat or irritation. When wearing socks make sure to change them regularly.

Don’t wear shoes without socks. Doing so will increase your risk of an ulcer or infection. Make sure that your shoes are comfortable and don’t cause your feet or toes to rub. Even if you do not have problems with your feet, it is best to wear socks and a good pair of shoes to prevent anything from happening in the future.

Wearing socks helps to keep your feet warm and dry. SmartKnit Diabetic socks are ideal for those who suffer from diabetes. They are completely seam-free and feel like a second skin.

Learn methods that will help you to de-stress. This will help to keep your cortisol levels low. Exercise, for some, is a strategy to help maintain stress and cortisol levels. Much like movement, when it comes to finding ways to de-stress making sure that you find something you enjoy will make it easier. Listen to music, take up meditation or mindfulness, enjoy a warm bath, or get involved in a creative pursuit. Whatever brings joy to your day will help to lower your cortisol levels.

Diabetes can reduce blood flow and lead to damage to the nerves in your feet. Inspect your feet daily but be gentle. Since the nerve endings in your feet can become damaged, it is best to check on them daily. Problems with your feet can be avoided if you take care of them. Notify your doctor if you have a problem or see any changes.

Cut nails regularly and be careful, as any small cut can be dangerous. If you are cutting your nails too fast, you may not be aware of a potential problem. Reduced blood flow to the feet can make it difficult to heal from any infection or injury, no matter how minor.

Wash your feet with lukewarm water. Water that is too hot or too cold could cause an issue. Use mild soap. Dry your feet well after a bath, shower, or any contact with water. Carefully blot the area, do not rub, especially between the toes.

Like any other doctor, make sure that you are scheduling regular exams to help find issues before they become a problem. Get your feet checked at every health care visit, even if your feet are not bothering you. Also, visit your podiatrist every year. Your podiatrist will check for feeling and blood flow in your feet.

Using products like SmartKnit Diabetic socks is a great way to keep you healthy and active. SmartKnit seamless socks prevent blisters that cause pressure points from bulky or uncomfortable sock seams. The moisture-wicking fibers keep you cool and dry through day or night. These fibers are breathable allowing any moisture to flow out and let air in. Keep yourself moving with SmartKnit.