Foot Health Awareness for People with Diabetes

Your foot is a very complex part of your body. Each foot contains 26 bones, held in place by hundreds of ligaments, tendons and muscles. The average adult puts well over one million pounds of force on their feet every day. However, the foot acts as a complex set of shock absorbers that protect the body with every step. This is only one of many important reasons why you should take good care of your feet.

People with Diabetes
If you have diabetes you are at a greater risk of foot problems. In fact, diabetes can often first be detected in the foot. In addition to regular screening, be aware of these warning signs:

• skin colour changes

• elevation in skin temperature
• swelling of your foot or ankle
• pain in the legs
• open sores on your feet that are slow to heal
• ingrown and fungal toenails
• bleeding corns and calluses
• dry cracks in the skin, especially around the heel.

To help prevent issues arising with your feet you should:

• wash your feet daily
• inspect your feet and toes daily
• wear thick, soft socks
• stop smoking
• cut toenails straight across
• exercise regularly
• visit your primary care provider for regular check ups
• be properly measured and fitted every time you buy new shoes
• wear appropriate footwear rather than going barefoot
• avoid wearing high heels, sandals or shoes with pointed toes
• drink in moderation
• avoid wearing anything that is too tight around the legs
• obtain help from a trained health care professional to remove calluses, corns or warts.

From the first baby steps you take and in all of the phases throughout your life, having healthy feet is important. You only have one pair of feet to last a lifetime so take good care of them!

Preventative Health Care – the Easiest Way to Protect Your Future!