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Why foot care is essential.

By: Lorie Widdup, Pharm.D., CDE
Rite Aid Pharmacist and Diabetes Care Specialist at Store 926 in Waynesburg, PA

People who have been diagnosed with diabetes are more likely to experience a loss of sensation in their feet, a condition known as neuropathy. Both neuropathy and poor circulation may lead to a variety of foot problems including cracked heels, callus formation, dry skin, foot deformities, and diabetic foot ulcers. Through daily foot examinations it is possible to lessen the severity of these conditions or possibly prevent them altogether.

The incidence of foot ulcers and the potential complications that occur as a result of them are considered to be the most common cause of hospitalization among people with diabetes.1 Approximately 15% of all patients with diabetes will experience a foot ulcer in their lifetime, and these ulcers most often occur in patients over the age of 40.2 Non-healing foot ulcers are responsible for up to 85% of all foot amputations. Clearly, it is essential for people with diabetes to perform a daily self-foot exam to prevent the onset of such complications.

Below are some helpful hints in practicing daily foot care:

• Examine feet daily for signs of blisters, corns, calluses and redness.
• Wash feet daily with warm water and gentle soap. Avoid soaking feet in hot water, and dry feet well-especially between the toes where fungal infections may develop.
• Apply lotion once feet are dry, avoiding the area between the toes to prevent fungal infections.
• Trim nails straight across; avoid cutting around the corners or the side of the nails.
• Avoid removing corns or calluses without the aid of a podiatrist or physician.
• Ensure that shoes fit properly and avoid going barefoot. Wear closed-toed shoes or slippers.
• At every visit to your physician, remove shoes and socks for foot inspection.
• Get in touch with your physician if any of the following occur:
  • Infected or ingrown toenails
  • Open sores on the foot that are not healing
  • Changes in skin color or appearance
  • Swelling of the foot or ankle area
  • Dry cracks in the skin

Most importantly, strive for good blood sugar control by taking medications as prescribed and eating a healthy diet. Blood sugars in the range of 70-140mg/dL are optimal for preventing future complications.

References:

1. Mayfield J, Reiber G, Sanders L, Janisse D, Pogach L. Preventive foot care in people with diabetes. Diabetes Care. 1998;21(12):2161-2177.
2. Wound Facts & Prevention: What are Diabetic Foot Ulcers? Organogenesis Inc Web Site 2003. Available at: www.apligraf.com/content/woundfact_woundover_aboutdfu.htm.
3. Terrie Y. A Pharmacist’s Guide to the Care and Management of Diabetic Foot Ulcers. Pharmacy Times. 2204;30:74-79.

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