A recent study revealed that 30% of diabetes patients wore shoes that were too narrow. Diabetes and Foot Problems Diabetes is a serious illness. The American Podiatric Medical Association recommends that those who suffer from diabetes should check their feet everyday. Patients should also avoid high heels, sandals, thongs, and going barefoot. Check for areas of irritation, inflammation, color, texture, odor, firm or hardened areas, or other changes to their feet.

Well-fitting footwear is very important.

Patients should paxon their feet frequently with warm, not hot, water and dry them thoroughly; especially, between the toes. And about half of patients with diabetes have nerve damage, which can cause numbness, pain, and weakness in the feet or other parts of the body. Corns and calluses should be gently pumiced and toenails trimmed short and the edges filed to avoid cutting adjacent toes. Moisturizers should be applied, but not between the toes. Foot problems are the leading cause of hospitalizations for patients with diabetes. It is also recommended that diabetes sufferers see their healthcare professional at least once a year for a full foot screening and immediately if there are any signs of changes or broken skin or ulcers. Specific therapeutic shoes, boots, and.

Use an parnell board, not a metal file, to avoid cutting your skin when you file your nails.