One of the biggest risks suffered by a person living with diabetes is the slow healing of injuries, so it is essential to be very careful and know how to treat the skin and cut the nails of the feet. In addition, it must be borne in mind that the immune system is also altered, making it difficult to fight infections.
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Nervous system damage is another risk factor, causing loss of sensation in the lower extremities, injuries such as cuts, scrapes, blisters, ulcers, calluses and even buried nails and deformities can go unnoticed. Hence the importance of daily care, cleaning and supervision of the feet.
Although it is a task that requires time, it is important to do it to be aware of any change or injury that may arise. Follow the tips to take care of your feet that we list here.
10 tips to take care of your feet
1. Have a toolkit
It is important that you have your own case where you keep your tools. Do not share them, so you will avoid the spread of any disease. The objects you must have are the following:
• Nail clipper
• Soft bristle brush
• File for calluses
• Lubricating cream
• Protective patches
2. Soak your feet
Dip your feet in a tub with warm water for 5 minutes. It is important not to exceed this time and avoid very hot water . Before doing so, test the temperature of the liquid with your elbow.
3. Cut your nails
With the help of a nail clipper or pliers, cut them. They should not be shorter than the end of the finger. Avoid leaving pieces of nail on the sides, because over time can cause ingrown toenails . Do not cut the cuticle.
4. Clean the grooves
Clean the lateral grooves of the nails, especially the thumbs, with a soft bristle brush. Do it gently and avoid carving with force. This will prevent the accumulation of dead cells, grease and dirt.
5. Limit the asperities
Check your heels and plants, if you observe roughness, lighten them gently so as not to damage the tissues. An over-the-counter file is a good option for this step. If you see the area badly damaged, go to the doctor.
6. Visit the Podiatrist
Calluses on the fingers and sides can only be treated by a Podiatrist. If they are very small, they can be smoothed gently, taking care not to damage the skin. Do not use callicides.
7. Give a massage
With the help of a lubricating cream gives a gentle massage with circular movements on your feet and nails. Do not apply it between your fingers, as the humidity could cause infections.
8. Avoid talcs
Do not use talc, deodorant or any other product that can dry out the skin. Only a specialist can prescribe this type of treatment and will only do so if necessary.
9. Use patches
Place patches to protect the friction areas (between the skin and the shoe). Major injuries, such as blisters, ulcers or buried nails, treat them with a Podiatrist. A small wound can result in something serious.
10. Wear comfortable shoes
Rico Montalvo points out the importance of not walking barefoot, using soft socks, made of cotton and without seams, as well as anatomical shoes , with soft skin, with anti-slip sole and without seams.