World Diabetes Day: Create a Healthy Foot Care Regime
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It is estimated that more than 5.6 million people in the UK are living with diabetes, a rate which is, worryingly, at an all-time high.
Around 8% of those people are living with Type 1 diabetes, and the rest, over 90%, are living with Type 2. It is also estimated that an additional 1.2 million people could be living with type 2 diabetes who are yet to be diagnosed.1
There can be many health complexities of living with the condition, and this World Diabetes Day (14th November 2024), we speak to podiatrist and brand ambassador for Footmender®All in One, Molly Chilvers BS.c MRCPod on the importance of maintaining a healthy footcare regime.
Why is it important to understand how diabetes affects the feet?
Diabetes can cause foot problems for several reasons. High blood sugar levels can damage the nerves which in turn can reduce feeling in the feet, often referred to as neuropathy. You may also experience pain and/or cramps in your legs or feet.
Those living with diabetes often have circulatory problems, which can lead to a limited or poor blood supply to the feet which has the potential for the body to have problems healing cuts or sores. Diabetics very often suffer from dry skin, calluses and corns on their feet, as well as heel fissures.
Understanding how diabetes affects the feet can help you to avoid complications, and adopting a healthy foot care regime can ensure you are on top of any potential issues.
What should form part of a healthy foot care regime?
Those living with diabetes should check their feet daily for any potential problems. If you struggle to lift your feet, then it’s possible to check the soles of your feet by using a mirror or, if your eyesight isn’t as good as it used to be, then ask a healthcare professional or family member to check your feet for you.
Make sure to cut toenails regularly but not too short or too low down along the sides. Keep them trim by using nail clippers, cutting straight across and then use an emery board to file down any corners or rough ends.
I also advise using a foot cream specially formulated for your feet, like Footmender® All in One Diabetic which has been specially developed for diabetics. The Class IIa medical device is a multi-functional footcare product with a unique, patented formula which treats and heals dry skin, calluses, corns and heel fissures on diabetics’ feet simultaneously. Treatment is therefore easier and less costly, as you only need one daily treatment and do not have to buy multiple products to treat different conditions on your feet. You will see an effect within a few days, often after the very first treatment. Once the desired result is achieved, Footmender® All in One Diabetic only needs to be applied twice a week as part of a maintenance programme, to keep your feet in good condition.
Making sure the feet are protected with proper-fitting shoes and socks is also important. Protruding seams and/or holes in socks can aggravate the feet, and choose broad fitting, low heeled shoes to provide maximum comfort when walking.
Make sure to maintain continuous contact with your healthcare provider and have a doctor, diabetes specialist nurse, or medical podiatrist examine your feet at least once a year.
What should I do if I notice a problem?
If you do notice something wrong, it’s really important to call your GP surgery straight away and explain your situation. If you can’t get through, call 111 for advice.
Footmender® All in One Diabetic is stocked in Boots, Well Pharmacy (stores across the UK and online) and Pharmacy2u. RRP: £36.99.
