Preventing Wound Of DIabet In The Foot

One of the complications that is often encountered in diabetes mellitus / diabetes sufferers is wounds on the feet, or what is often known as diabetic foot. This can occur as a result of nerve damage which makes the feet feel numb/numb so that sufferers often do not feel it and find out too late if there is an injury to the foot.

Wounds in diabetes sufferers tend to be more difficult to heal and can get worse quickly if they don't get good treatment immediately. One of the main complications is infection of the tissue, which can lead to amputation. To avoid this, it is very important for every person with diabetes to always carry out routine foot care.

Here are some useful tips for diabetics in caring for their feet:

a. Always wear comfortable and safe footwear

Footwear is very important to prevent wounds on the feet of people with diabetes. It is recommended to wear closed shoes made from leather and not too narrow, so that they are comfortable to wear and do not risk causing injury to the feet. Before wearing shoes, first check the inside of the shoes, because you are worried that there may be foreign objects such as gravel or sharp objects stuck in the shoes.

b. Use clean and comfortable socks

It is recommended to use cotton socks that do not have creases at the tips of the toes to avoid injuries. Always change socks every day, so that your feet stay clean and avoid infection.

c. Use special footwear if there are foot deformities

One of the complications of long-term uncontrolled diabetes is foot deformity. If this happens, immediately consult a doctor to have special footwear made that suits the shape of your feet.

d. Keep the skin of your feet clean and moist

Cleaning your feet regularly is very important, and after washing make sure you always wipe your feet dry, especially between the toes. The feet must also be dry before applying skin moisturizer. Use moisturizer only on the back and soles of the feet, and do not use moisturizer between the toes so that the areas between the toes remain dry.

e. Keep your nails clean

It is highly recommended to cut your nails regularly, to reduce the risk of injury due to nails that are too long. Clip your toenails straight, following the normal shape of your toes, not too close to the skin, then file them so the nails are not sharp

f. Check your feet every day

Check your feet every day, and immediately visit a doctor if there are problems with your feet, such as peeling skin or calluses (calluses). It is best not to remove calluses yourself, to avoid the risk of infection and injury to the underlying skin tissue. If there is a small wound, treat the wound and cover it with a clean cloth or gauze.

Not only doing routine foot care, what is no less important is controlling blood sugar levels, blood pressure and cholesterol well. Consult a doctor regularly so that your diabetes is well controlled, and you avoid the risk of diabetic wounds.