Taking Care of Diabetic Feet: An In-Depth Guide for Caregivers and Patients

 

At Fabulous Foot Care, we specialize in diabetic foot care and provide services in our Calgary NW clinic as well as in-home nursing foot care services. Whether you’re a caregiver or managing diabetes yourself, here’s how you can take proactive steps to protect your feet.

Why Foot Care Matters for Diabetic Patients

High blood sugar can damage nerves and reduce circulation, especially in the feet, leading to issues that are hard to detect and slow to heal. Preventive care is essential to avoid serious complications.

1. Daily Hygiene Routine

Maintaining clean and dry feet is critical. Here’s what you should do every day:

• Wash your feet with lukewarm water and mild soap. Don’t soak them for too long.
• Dry thoroughly, especially between your toes to prevent fungal infections.
• Apply moisturizer to the tops and bottoms of your feet, but not between the toes.

2. Footwear and Socks

Protective footwear is key to avoiding injury.

• Choose shoes that fit properly with enough room for your toes.
• Wear diabetic-friendly socks that are seamless and made of breathable materials.
• Avoid walking barefoot, even indoors, to prevent injury.

3. Early Detection of Foot Problems

Regularly inspect your feet for signs of trouble. Look for:

• Redness, swelling, or warmth that could indicate an infection
• Sores, blisters, or cuts that take a long time to heal
• Calluses or corns that could lead to ulcers if untreated
• Fungal infections, which can cause yellowing or thickening of the toenails

If you notice any of these, contact Fabulous Foot Care for a professional assessment. We offer the latest in treatment technologies, including Onyfix for ingrown toenails and ToeFX for fungal infections.

4. Common Diabetic Foot Problems

Diabetic patients are prone to several foot conditions, and early treatment is essential. Here are some of the most common:

• Neuropathy (Nerve Damage): This reduces sensation in the feet, making it difficult to detect injuries.
• Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD): Poor circulation can lead to slow-healing wounds and increase the risk of infections.
• Foot Ulcers: Open sores that are often caused by minor injuries but can become infected if left untreated.
• Fungal Infections: Diabetic patients are more susceptible to athlete’s foot and toenail fungus, which can be treated with the ToeFX system.
• Ingrown Toenails: Common in diabetic patients due to poor circulation and slow healing. The Onyfix system provides a painless solution to correct ingrown nails without surgery.
• Charcot Foot: A serious condition where the bones in the foot weaken, leading to deformities. It often goes unnoticed due to neuropathy.

5. Professional Foot Exams and Treatment

Diabetic patients should have their feet examined by a professional regularly. At Fabulous Foot Care, we provide:

• Routine check-ups every 6-8 weeks
• Wound care to prevent infections
• Advanced treatments like Onyfix for ingrown toenails and ToeFX for fungal nail infections

Book an Appointment with Fabulous Foot Care

Foot care is a vital part of managing diabetes. At Fabulous Foot Care, we offer specialized services for diabetic patients, both at our Calgary NW clinic and through our in-home nursing foot care services. Take control of your foot health today.

Book your appointment with us now to ensure your feet remain healthy and problem-free.