Even a small
injury can lead to complications and it is imperative to get feet checked annually
in those with diabetes
New Delhi, 21st
July 2017: According to statistics, during the diagnosis of
Type 2 diabetes, at least 1 in 10 people, possess risk factors for foot damage.
Studies also estimate the prevalence of diabetic foot in India between 7.4% and
15.3%. It is important to identify this condition at the earliest and provide
treatment failing which the condition can lead to serious health issues. A
small injury can later develop infections and even end up in amputations.
The WHO
defines diabetic foot as, "The foot of a diabetes patient that has
potential risk of pathologic consequences including infection, ulceration and
/or destruction of deep tissues associated with neurologic abnormalities,
various degrees of peripheral vascular disease and/or metabolic complications
of diabetes in the lower limb."
Speaking
about this condition, Padma Shri Awardee Dr K K Aggarwal, National President Indian Medical
Association (IMA) and President Heart Care Foundation of India (HCFI) and Dr RN
Tandon – Honorary Secretary General IMA in a joint statement, said
"It is imperative to check the feet every day once diabetes has been
diagnosed. Factors such as callus, corn, infections of skin or nailbed,
onychocryptosis or ingrown toe-nail can lead to ulcers and must be prevented.
Diabetes leads to damage of nerves in the feet. In the absence of pain, such
small injuries can go unnoticed. Additionally, other associated conditions such
as high blood pressure, smoking, cholesterol, and obesity tend to reduce the
blood flow to the feet, in a person with diabetes. All these predispose a
person to secondary infections thereby aggravating the problem further. Some
other complications associated with diabetic foot include ulceration,
infection, septicaemia, gangrene, deformity, and limb loss."
Some probable
causes of a diabetic foot include peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage),
vasculopathy, (obstruction of blood vessels), foot deformity, infection, and
oedema (swollen feet). Treating a diabetic foot includes addressing three basic
issues: debridement, offloading, and infection control.
Adding
further, Dr Aggarwal, said, "Those with diabetes should get their
feet examined on an annual basis. It is important to notify the doctor if there
are any cuts or breaks in the skin, or an ingrown nail, or if the feet become
less sensitive or start hurting. It is possible to prevent development of
diabetic foot by optimizing glycaemic control, offering patient education
including daily feet examination, nail care, proper foot wear, and utilizing
emollients to moisturize the feet."
Follow these
tips to take care of your feet if you have been diagnosed with diabetes:
- Keep sugar levels under check: Follow
lifestyle tips suggested by your doctor to keep your blood glucose levels
in the correct range.
- Check your feet every day: Watch out for any
red spots, cuts, swelling, or blisters.
- Be physically active: Engage in at least 30
minutes of physical activity every day.
- Keep your feet clean: Wash your feet every day
and dry them carefully, especially the area between toes.
- Moisturize feet well: Apply a thin coat of
moisturizer over the top and bottom of your feet every day after you wash
them.
- Trim your nails regularly.
- Wear comfortable shoes and socks: It is a good
idea to not walk barefoot. Buy footwear that is comfortable and fit well.
Ensure that the lining is smooth and there are no objects inside your
footwear.
- Keep the blood flowing to your feet: Put your
feet up when sitting. Wiggle your toes and move your ankles up and down
for 5 minutes, two (2) or three (3) times a day. Don't cross your legs for
long periods of time.
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