To Your Feet
A Condensed Overview of Diabetic Skin Ulcers, Cause and Prevention
by Kendra Koch
(continued from page 1)
Neuropathy can also create weakness and atrophy in foot muscles which can cause the foot to misalign, putting greater pressure on certain areas of the foot, thus creating pressure sores. Once again, these sores may go undetected because of loss of sensation in the foot.
In addition to dry skin, nerve damage, and low blood flow-certain medications can also increase the likelihood of ulceration in a diabetic patient. Commonly used diabetic drugs, such as oral steroids and rosiglitazone have been shown to increase edema (swelling) in diabetic patients.
Edema narrows the arteries, lessening the blood flow to a wound. And, as we discussed above, this low blood flow inhibits the body's ability to heal itself.
While treatment for diabetic ulcers improves with every new development, the most effective form of treatment still comes in the form of prevention. Diabetics who take responsibility for their own treatment have far fewer incidences of ulceration. Be proactive. In addition to seeing a health care provider on a regular basis, following a diabetic diet, and taking all prescribed medications-you should also maintain proper hygiene and skin health.
The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse (NDIC) offers the following suggestions:
• Wash your feet in warm water every day. Make sure the water is not too hot by testing the
temperature with your elbow. Do not soak your feet. Dry your feet well, especially between your
toes
• Look at your feet every day to check for cuts, sores, blisters, redness, calluses, or other problems.
Checking every day is even more important if you have nerve damage or poor blood flow. If you
cannot bend over or pull your feet up to check them, use a mirror. If you cannot see well, ask
someone else to check your feet.
• If your skin is dry, rub lotion on your feet after you wash and dry them. Do not put lotion between
your toes
• File corns and calluses gently with an emery board or pumice stone. Do this after your bath or
shower.
• Cut your toenails once a week or when needed. Cut toenails when they are soft from washing.
• Cut them to the shape of the toe and not too short. File the edges with an emery board.
• Always wear shoes or slippers to protect your feet from injuries.
• Always wear socks or stockings to avoid blisters. Do not wear socks or knee-high stockings that are
too tight below your knee.
• Wear shoes that fit well. Shop for shoes at the end of the day when your feet are bigger. Break in
shoes slowly. Wear them 1 to 2 hours each day for the first 1 to 2 weeks.
• Before putting your shoes on, feel the insides to make sure they have no sharp edges or objects
that might injure your feet.
The type of shoe you wear is important. A protective shoe is the more appropriate choice. Avoid wearing flip-flops or open-toe sandal type shoes. Your health care provider may prescribe diabetic shoes to alleviate pressure sores that may be caused by irregularities in your foot.
Promising new treatments such as the use of silver products, Anodyne Therapy and an all-natural alkalizing cosmetic spray have shown promising results in the cure and prevention of diabetic ulcers. If you think you may be developing a sore or ulcer, ask your health care provider about which treatment is best for you.
You do not need to be a statistic. Maintain a proper diet, good communication with your physician, and proactive foot and skin care. Do what you can to ensure good skin and foot health. Your time is worth the effort. To your feet! Take control and keep your lifestyle as convenient and pain free as you want it to be.
This information provided to you as a public service from Healthy Life and Times.
