Monitoring blood sugar levels and encouraging diet and exercise are essential steps caregivers can take to help someone manage diabetes. Foot care is also important in diabetes management, given how it may help prevent diabetic foot ulcers and amputation.
According to a recent study in Diabetes Therapy, caregivers have the potential to make a significant difference in the outcome of diabetic foot ulcers. However, some caregivers may feel they lack the confidence and education needed to provide good care so their loved ones are less vulnerable to serious complications.
If you are caring for someone with diabetes, teaching them about diabetic foot care can help them avoid complications like diabetic amputation and also enhance their quality of life. Use this guide to empower your loved one to take charge of their foot health.
Recognizing Early Signs of Diabetic Foot Ulcers
JAMA reports that diabetic foot ulcers will affect an estimated one-third of people with diabetes at some point during their lifetime. It adds that about half of diabetic foot ulcers become infected and that 20% of those infections eventually result in amputation of all or part of the foot.
Knowing how to recognize early signs of foot ulcers is key to early detection and treatment. Signs of diabetic foot ulcers may include:
· Redness and discoloration on or around the wound
· Corns and calluses
· Swelling
· Pain, tenderness, or discomfort
· Slow-healing wounds
· Infection (pus, drainage, odor, fever or chills, and firmness around the wound)
Inspect feet daily for signs of ulcers. Nerve damage in the feet from diabetes, called peripheral neuropathy, can make it hard to feel blisters and cuts.
Notify a healthcare provider immediately if you notice signs of a foot ulcer, including infection. Treatment options for diabetic foot ulcers include debridement, orthotics, bracing, and blood sugar management.
More Tips for Diabetic Foot Care
Inspecting the feet daily is just one of many components that make up great diabetic foot care. Here are other steps that can be taken to care for your loved one’s feet.
Wash the Feet Daily
Washing your loved one’s feet every day helps remove fungus and bacteria. This can lower the risk of infection, especially if there are open wounds. Wash your feet with soap and warm, clean water.
Then, apply cornstarch or talcum powder to your feet and between your toes. This helps to remove moisture.
Smooth Corns and Calluses
Nerve damage in the feet may cause corns and calluses to develop into ulcers. Smooth your loved one’s corns and calluses using a pumice stone every day after bathing. Take care to rub gently in one direction to prevent the skin from tearing.
Trim the Toenails
Trimming your toenails regularly helps prevent ingrown toenails. Ingrown toenails can get infected and lead to ulcers or diabetic amputation. Trim your loved one’s toenails straight across, and don’t hesitate to visit a foot doctor for assistance with performing this task if needed.
Wear Socks and Shoes
People who are living with diabetes are typically advised to wear socks and shoes at all times, given how this may prevent foot wounds and bacteria exposure. Choose moisture-wicking socks to keep your loved one’s feet dry, and choose comfortable, properly fitting shoes that won’t lead to blisters, corns, and calluses. Talk to your loved one’s doctor for advice on the best shoes for people with diabetes.
Protect the Feet From Hot and Cold
Nerve damage can often prevent people with diabetes from feeling hot and cold injuries such as sunburns and frostbite. Take the necessary precautions when taking your loved one out in hot and cold weather conditions, such as when going to the pool during summer or when venturing out in the snow during winter.
Promote Blood Flow to the Feet
Poor blood circulation to the feet can often contribute to diabetic foot ulcers and delay their healing. Encourage your loved one to do activities that increase blood flow to the feet, such as walking, cycling, and elevating the feet when sitting for long periods.
Consider Remote Temperature Monitoring
Remote temperature monitoring is a technology that allows your loved one’s healthcare provider to monitor their foot health from afar. This is done with the SmartMat™ Program. It uses remote temperature monitoring to check foot temperature.
This helps find signs of inflammation and diabetic foot ulcers. When high temperatures are detected, your loved one will be notified by the Podimetrics Patient Support Team for timely clinical intervention.
The Importance of Caregiver Education and Support in Preventing Diabetic Amputation
Living with diabetes can be tough, especially for those who face health equity challenges. These challenges can make people more vulnerable to complications. Social factors greatly affect the risk of amputation. For example, some races and ethnic groups have a higher risk than others.
However, empowering your loved one and educating them about the importance of diabetic foot care can go a long way toward reducing their risk for diabetic amputation.
An article in Wounds UK says that patients with diabetic foot ulcers experience more stress, depression, and anxiety. This is compared to patients who do not have ulcers. Showing your loved one how to care for their feet may reduce their risk for these mental health problems.
Another study in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation highlights that patients who have had an amputation and whose caregivers are understanding and supportive tend to have greater levels of life satisfaction.
No matter the outcome, support your loved one’s efforts to care for their foot health and lend an empathetic ear when needed.
If you care for someone with complex diabetes, visit our Patient Resources page. You can learn about the SmartMat™ Program. This program can help lower your loved one’s risk of foot problems and amputation.
