Top 6 Foot and Nail Care Tips For Diabetics

In case you are a patient who has diabetes, you must be aware by now about the essence of foot care. Therefore if you require some help with regard to the best care regimen, below are some helpful foot care tips for diabetics.

Practical Foot and Nail Care Tips for Patients with Diabetes

1. Patients with diabetes are also likely to develop high blood pressure. Other opportunistic infections are also bound to arise very easily. As a result, complications may come about if you fail to observe proper hygiene. Wearing clothes and shoes that are too tight is not advisable. Bear in mind that majority of the complications that develop can be prevented if blood sugar level is kept under control. Ensure that you check your blood sugar level on a regular basis the entire day.
2. Make it a habit of inspecting your feet at least once every day after cleaning them and change your socks in the course of the day. Also make sure the interior of your shoes are kept clean. Should you notice even a small cut during inspection, treat it immediately. Disinfect the part with the cut and apply a fresh band aid. Remember to have the band aid changed regularly and just before putting a fresh one, disinfectant should be applied. If the cut on your feet is deep, it would be advisable to see a doctor who will ensure that it is correctly cleaned before bandaging is done. If you spot some bruises, apply cream and inspect the bruised section regularly to ascertain it is not spreading.
3. It is also a good idea for you to wear comfortable shoes since they make all the difference. Tight shoes are likely to prevent blood from circulating in a proper manner. High heels should be avoided at all costs. Open shoes should also be avoided since doing so reduces the risk of your feet getting cut. Always wear your shoes regardless of where you are and whenever you go shopping for footwear, try on different pairs as you walk around in them to check whether they are comfortable.
4. Your toenails should always be cut properly. Remember to smoothen off corners using an emery board to prevent your nails from coming into contact with each other. If you always have difficulty in cutting your nails, take a shower or have a bath as this will soften them. Before doing so, check the temperature of the water using your hand. Avoid cold water because prolonged exposure decreases circulation.
5. Should you spot any ingrown toenail, see a professional who specializes in foot care immediately. Self treating of calluses or corns with over the counter prescriptions is also not a good idea. It is better to book an appointment at any of the local foot care centers.
6. Always keep active so that blood can flow through your feet and legs. If you plan on sitting for long, your feet should be put up whenever possible. 

The above foot care tips for diabetics should be followed religiously so as to prevent amputation. Just in case you encounter a problem with your feet, you should make an effort of consulting a podiatrist without delay so that your feet can get checked.