Keeping your feet healthy

We all know smoking isn’t good for you, but did you know it can cause extra issues for people with diabetes? It makes blood circulation more difficult, including in your feet. This increases the risk of wounds and ulcers not healing and can lead to lower limb amputation.

Talk to your health care professional for advice on quitting smoking.

Stable blood glucose levels will help to lower the risk of foot problems. If you are having difficulty keeping your blood glucose levels within your target range talk to your GP, credentialled diabetes educator.

People with diabetes may experience changes in their feet quite suddenly. That’s why it is important to check your feet every day. Maybe have a good look every morning when putting your socks on or use a mirror to see under your feet. If you are unsure, do the “Touch the Toes” test and contact your GP or healthcare professional if you experience any changes.

Eating well and getting regular physical activity will help you reduce your risk of serious foot problems. If you need to find the right physical activity for you or you want to eat well, talk to your healthcare professional or call the NDSS Helpline on 1800 637 700

Moderate regular exercise is a good idea for everyone! Walking or light, weight-bearing activity is recommended. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and find an activity you enjoy – walking with friends, riding a bike, a yoga class or water aerobics are a great place to start. Remember to always check your feet for rubs or wounds after exercising.

If you have or have had a foot ulcer, loss of protective sensation or changes to your circulation, limit your weight-bearing exercises. Visit a trained health care professional prior to commencing any new exercise regime.

Cutting your nails might seem straightforward but if you are living with diabetes cutting your skin can lead to injuries you may not even be aware of. Your healthcare team can tell you if it is safe for you to cut your own toenails.

Cut nails often but not too short, follow the shape of the nail and use nail clippers. If your nails are too hard to cut, a nail file may also be helpful. Visiting a podiatrist for further care and to help treat ingrown or difficult to cut nails is also a good idea.

Washing your feet every day with mild soap and water helps to keep them clean and prevent infections. Remember to dry all areas thoroughly, including between your toes. Do not soak your feet as this can damage the skin.

• Only wear socks and shoes that fit well and don’t rub against your skin. Get your shoes from a professional and take care that they…
  • are broad fitting – fit the shape of your foot
  • have a deep and rounded toe area
  • are flat or low heeled
  • are fastened by laces or velcro strap to stop your feet sliding around
  • rubber, cushioned sole
  • made of breathable material, for example, short shoe material or leather

Your local podiatrist can give you more tips.

Use a moisturising cream to keep your skin healthy but don’t put cream between your toes as this could cause problems. The same goes for talcum powder which, when clogged up, can cause dryness. Talk to your healthcare specialist to find the right product for you.

Never use medicated plasters to remove corns or blades as this could damage your skin. If you need help, talk to your healthcare team or podiatrist.

Always wear shoes when walking or doing any form of physical activity.

Despite the risks that poor-fitting shoes may pose, footwear offers protection that being barefoot or wearing socks on their own do not. For instance, there is an increased risk of stepping on foreign objects and causing injury from stubbing toes.

Check your footwear every time you put them on. Always check the inside of the shoes with your hand to make sure nothing has fallen inside them. Check that nothing has pierced the sole of the shoe. This could be some glass or a tack.

Remember to wear clean socks to wick away sweat and protect against rubs.

You should have your feet checked once a year by a healthcare professional. This is your chance to have an in-depth check and get answers to all of your questions. Find out about your risk of developing a foot problem and get advice if you should see a specialist or if you need to get your feet checked more regularly.

Know who to call if you have any problems. This could include your GP, CDE, podiatrist or other health professional.  Keep their contact details and opening hours handy.