People with diabetes should take good care of their feet because foot complications are a common problem associated with diabetic neuropathy. If a foot problem is not attended to immediately in a person with diabetes, it can cause complications which may be quite serious. 

Diabetic neuropathy is a condition that occurs in people with diabetes wherein they lose some degree of feeling in the feet due to nerve damage. Due to the damage to the nerves, a person may not be aware if they get hurt or have minor cuts or bruises on their feet. If not treated in time, this can lead to foot ulcers and serious complications. With proper foot care, diabetic foot problems can be avoided. 

Foot Care for People with Diabetic Neuropathy

People with diabetes should follow a good daily foot care routine that includes:

Foot Care at Home

• Washing the feet regularly and ensuring that it is clean.
• After washing, making sure to dry well between the toes.
• Using a moisturizer after cleaning the feet.
• Checking feet daily to make sure that there are no wounds that have been overlooked. 

Foot Care When Buying New Shoes

• Buy shoes in the evening because the feet always swell up by evening.
• Don’t rush into buying shoes. Buy shoes that fit well.
• Avoid open-toed shoes, like sandals, or shoes with narrow toes.
• Get shoes that are wide and deep enough.

Foot Care to Avoid Injury to Feet

• Don’t walk barefoot.
• Don’t wear open sandals as you can injure your feet.
• Keep toenails trimmed. 
• Have corns or calluses treated by a podiatrist.

See a Podiatrist Regularly

Podiatrists are highly trained health professionals who deal with foot problems. People who suffer from diabetic neuropathy must see a podiatrist regularly for neuropathy treatment. A regular foot check-up is important as it helps in the prevention, diagnosis and management of foot problems.

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