Caring For The Diabetic Foot
By Adrian Singh, Medical Orthotist and Prosthetist Life Fourways Hospital
Website: https://adriansingh.co.za/
Diabetic foot is a severe and potentially debilitating complication that can impact individuals with diabetes. In this article, we aim to delve into the causes and symptoms of this complication and explore effective management strategies to enhance the quality of life for those with diabetes.
We have previously examined diabetic foot issues, highlighting Solidea’s specialised model designed to safeguard the sensitive skin of diabetic patients. Here are the questions we aim to address:
1. What triggers diabetic foot?
2. How does diabetic foot develop?
3. Who is responsible for treating diabetic foot?
4. What are the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy?
5. What treatments are available for diabetic foot?
Causes of Diabetic Foot:
Diabetic foot arises from various factors associated with diabetes, notably diabetic neuropathy, a condition wherein diabetes damages nerves in the legs and feet. This nerve damage can reduce sensitivity to pain, heat, and cold, increasing the risk of injuries. Furthermore, diabetes causes harm to blood vessels, resulting in decreased blood flow to the legs and feet. The diminished venous circulation to the foot leads to less oxygen reaching the tissue.
Development of Diabetic Foot:
The physical symptoms characterising diabetic foot stem from the conditions above. Diabetic neuropathy causes reduced sensitivity to injuries like cuts, blisters, or abrasions, making early detection challenging. Additionally, it leads to foot deformities, such as hammer toes, hallux valgus, or flat feet, which increase pressure on specific areas, promoting ulcer formation. Sores and ulcers result from reduced blood flow, a consequence of diabetes. If left untreated, these can escalate into a critical condition like gangrene, potentially necessitating foot amputation.
Treatment Providers for Diabetic Foot:
Effective treatment for diabetic foot necessitates the involvement of a specialised healthcare team. A diabetologist oversees overall diabetes management, monitoring blood glucose levels, prescribing medications, and offering guidance on diabetic foot care. Podiatrists and orthotists specialise in foot problems and play a crucial role in assessing, treating, and preventing diabetic foot lesions. In severe cases, especially with advanced deformities or complicated injuries, vascular surgeons may be consulted, potentially performing amputations if necessary.
Symptoms of Diabetic Neuropathy:
Diabetic neuropathy may manifest in various ways, including:
– Loss of sensation to touch, pain, or temperature, making it difficult to detect foot injuries.
– Tingling sensations in the legs and feet.
– Muscle weakness affecting the legs and feet.
Diabetic Foot Amputation:
Amputation is only considered a last resort for severe, untreatable complications such as extensive infection, chronic ulcers, or gangrene.
If you experience these symptoms and have diabetes, consult your doctor to avoid complications. Regular check-ups are vital to prevent worsening symptoms. Monitoring blood glucose levels and having routine foot examinations are essential to detect injuries or deformities early. Consulting a podiatrist or orthopedist for foot care and following medical advice is crucial.
Diabetic Foot Treatment:
Caring for the diabetic foot includes:
Maintaining good hygiene, selecting comfortable footwear, and using specially designed socks and knee-highs can significantly enhance a patient’s daily life. For gentle hygiene without irritating the sensitive skin of diabetic feet, use lukewarm water and mild soap. Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes. Choose well-cushioned, properly sized shoes, avoiding tight or pressure-point-inducing footwear.
Your healthcare professional should determine the type of elastic compression device and its compression level. Solidea has developed knee-highs with seams on the outside for maximum comfort and diabetic foot health. The fine knit fabric is exceptionally soft, lightweight, and breathable, with slight compression ensuring a secure fit.
See Soldiea’s range of diabetic socks here. Our Diabetic Knee-high socks are suitable for people with diabetes who suffer from diabetic-related foot discomforts, such as diabetic neuropathy. These compression socks provide the support that the diabetic foot needs every day. Shop a pair here today.
Caring for the Diabetic foot is important. Individuals with diabetic foot concerns should always seek personalised advice from their healthcare professionals for the most suitable treatment options.