diabetic foot care
If your big toe slants sharply in toward your other toes, with a big bump on the knuckle of your big toe, you've got a classic bunion. Corns are spots of thick, rough skin, where the tissue builds up on toes constantly barraged by too much rubbing or pressure. A buckled-under toe, called a hammertoe, can result from muscle weakness caused by diabetic nerve damage. All of these make it hard to fit shoes comfortably. But a good podiatrist can help you fix these problems and take better care of your feet.
Patient was instructed about the feet care: always wear shoes or slippers. Always wear socks with the shoes, since leather, plastics, and manmade shoe materials can irritate your skin and quickly bring on blisters. While the Diabetic patient might prefer the look of hose, nylon knee-highs, or thin socks, may find that these doesn't give to the toes or heels enough protection. Wear thicker socks to pad the feet and cushion any calluses or sore spots. Further teaching is needed.
Instructed caregiver the patient are at high risk if the patient have or do the following: Neuropathy, Poor circulation, A foot deformity (e.g., bunion, hammer toe), Wear inappropriate shoes, Uncontrolled blood sugar, History of a previous foot ulceration.
Instructed patient about not using OTC chemicals on corns, calluses or warts since they are often too strong to use in diabetics.
Instructed patient to avoid cutting corn or calluses.
Instructed patient to wear flat; comfortable walking shoes as much as possible and select adequate socks.
Instructed patient on never walking barefoot to prevent cuts and burns and also to wear sleepers at night when getting up.
Instructed patient to cut the toenails straight across and file the edges, don't rip off hangnails.
Instructed patient about basic tips to help prevent infections in people with diabetes: wear shoes or slippers at all times, wear comfortable shoes; get used to new shoes slowly and always wear 'heavy' soft cotton socks.
Instructed patient to keep feet dry, especially between toes, to use lotion to keep skin soft and moist and to keep feet clean. Wash daily with lukewarm water.