6321 S Highland Dr
Salt Lake City, UT 84121
(P) 801.274.6905
(F) 801.274.3341
Salt Lake City, UT 84121
(P) 801.274.6905
(F) 801.274.3341
Diabetes Foot Care & Advice - 9/20/2008
Diabetes Foot Care & Advice
Millions of people suffer from diabetes every day. The body naturally produces insulin, which breaks down glucose to give us energy. Diabetes patients simply cannot produce enough insulin to perform this function properly. Diabetes is becoming more common.
Having diabetes can mean that you are at a higher risk from various associated health problems, such as:
Diabetes can also affect the foot. High glucose levels can eventually damage nerve endings and cause loss of sensation (neuropathy). This means that if small problems go unnoticed, they can get infected and lead to ulceration. There are various steps you can take to reduce this risk.
Purchasing shoes
Millions of people suffer from diabetes every day. The body naturally produces insulin, which breaks down glucose to give us energy. Diabetes patients simply cannot produce enough insulin to perform this function properly. Diabetes is becoming more common.
Having diabetes can mean that you are at a higher risk from various associated health problems, such as:
- Heart Disease
- Strokes
- Eye Disease
- Nerve Damage (neuropathy)
- Amputation of the foot or leg
- Kidney Problems
- Gum Disease
- Loss of Teeth
Diabetes can also affect the foot. High glucose levels can eventually damage nerve endings and cause loss of sensation (neuropathy). This means that if small problems go unnoticed, they can get infected and lead to ulceration. There are various steps you can take to reduce this risk.
Purchasing shoes
- Prevent any future foot problems by purchasing sensible and accommodating footwear
- Shoes should have a wide toe box, with low heel
- Footwear should be supportive, have shock absorbing properties with an adequate amount of cushioning (good insoles) inside
- When purchasing shoes remember that width is just as important as length
- Laced shoes can be a good choice as they can be adjusted to accommodate the foot more effectively
- Diabetes patients with neuropathy should have their shoes fitted by a professionally trained shoe fitter or Pedorthist, to ensure that they do not choose shoes that will constrict and aggravate the foot
