Foot ulcers are quite common in patients who suffer from diabetes, especially those who do not control it well with the help of insulin treatment, exercise, and diet. Ulcers happen when your skin tissue breaks down and exposes the layers beneath it. They are common under the ball of the feet and the big toe.
Risk factors of diabetic foot ulcers
- Shoes of poor quality or poor fit
- Improper toenail trimming
- Use of tobacco that inhibits your blood circulation
- Consumption of alcohol
- Poor hygiene; not washing thoroughly or regularly, or not drying your feet after you are done washing
- Kidney disease
- Heart disease
- Obesity
How to prevent diabetic foot ulcers?
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Inspect feet daily:-
Check the foot each day for swelling, tenderness, redness, sores, cracks, cuts, and blisters.
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Do not remove foot lesions or calluses yourself:-
Contact a foot specialist or doctor to remove your lesions. To prevent any injury, do not use cut warts, bunions, corns, calluses by yourself with scissors or blades.
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Wear dry and clean socks:-
You can wear cotton socks that can absorb sweat easily thereby reducing the risk of infection.
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Carefully trim toenails:-
Trim your nails straight. File the sharp ends with an emery board. Ask for any assistance when required.
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Do not smoke:-
Smoking prohibits proper blood circulation and lowers the oxygen amount in the blood. These can lead to poor healing and severe wounds.
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Regular check-up of the foot:-
Your podiatrist or foot doctor will be able to detect any signs of early nerve damage, foot problem, or poor circulation.
- Proper fitting shoe
- Wash feet daily
Conclusion
If you are suffering from a diabetic foot ulcer, you can contact Dr. Chetan Oswal at Orthowin Foot and Ankle Clinic in Pune to get the necessary treatment.