Diabetes and Foot Ulcers

By kent.SMITH

Diabetes leads to foot problems in about twenty-five percent of the population suffering from the disease, and one of the most troublesome of these foot problems is foot ulcers. A foot ulcer is an open wound on your foot. It can be shallow or deep and often forms over bony areas on the foot where the skin is exposed to rubbing from shoes, socks, etc. Foot ulcers on the ball of the foot or pad of the big toe are caused by pressure of the body’s weight bearing down on these areas while ulcers on the sides of the foot are most often caused by poorly fitting shoes.

Even if a foot ulcer does not hurt, it should be checked out by your doctor immediately. Because diabetes causes neuropathy (dulled sensation in your nervous system), you cannot rely on feelings of pain or soreness to determine whether or not you should see a doctor. Moreover, poor circulation makes it very difficult for your body to fight off infections. Neglecting an ulcer can lead to such an infection, and in worst case scenarios, amputation. In fact, diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic amputations in the world.

Your doctor should be able to provide you with antibiotics that will help your body fight off an infection. She will be able to properly clean the wound and make sure that the infection is not spreading to other parts of the body such as the bone. When healing from a foot ulcer, it is important to stay off your feet and not put unnecessary pressure on the wounded area. But the best treatment is, of course, preventative.

Investing in special orthopedic shoes or orthotics (orthopedic inserts) is a good idea for diabetics suffering from foot problems. A perfect fit is essential to prevent unnecessarily friction or pressure on the foot that can lead complications such as calluses, corns, bunions, hammertoe or foot ulcers. Mismatched shoes may be necessary if your feet are two different sizes and seamless socks are a must. If you take extra care of your feet – protecting them with high-quality, well-fitting shoes – you will save yourself many visits to the doctor and much grief in the future. Remember to take meticulous care of your feet: wash them and inspect them daily. Foot ulcers, in particular, have a tendency to reform in the same area so be vigilant with both your treatment and preventative care.

Jane Barron works for OddShoeFinder.com,a free online website that helps people find mismatched footwear.If you are looking for different sized shoes, or information useful to polio survivors, people with diabetes foot problems, and people with foot size differences, visit: www.oddshoefinder.com

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