Written by Jenna Fralick, BScN RN
Taking care of your feet is a crucial part of managing diabetes. Diabetic foot care helps prevent serious complications such as infections, ulcers, and amputations. Without proper care, small issues like blisters or ingrown nails can develop into major health concerns without proper care.
For those living with diabetes, regular foot assessments by a foot care nurse or nail care nurse can make all the difference in maintaining mobility and preventing complications. Accessing in-home foot care services provided by a mobile foot care nurse ensures that foot health remains a priority, even for those with limited mobility.
Why Is Diabetic Foot Care So Important?
Diabetes affects circulation and nerve function, making feet more vulnerable to injuries and slow healing. If left untreated, minor wounds can turn into serious infections or foot ulcers, which increase the risk of amputation (Canadian Diabetes Association, 2023).
Studies show that diabetic foot care can significantly reduce the risk of foot-related complications. Up to 85% of diabetes-related amputations are preventable with proper foot care (Diabetes Canada, 2023). This is why toenail trimming, skin assessments, and regular checkups by a foot care nurse are critical components of diabetes management.
Essential Diabetic Foot Care Tips
Following a daily foot care routine can help prevent serious complications. Here are some key steps:
1. Inspect Feet Daily
Check your feet every day for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling. If you have difficulty seeing your feet, use a mirror or ask a family member for help. A foot nurse can also perform regular evaluations.
2. Keep Feet Clean and Moisturized
Wash feet daily with warm water and mild soap, then apply a gentle moisturizer. Avoid putting lotion between the toes, as excess moisture can lead to fungal infections.
3. Trim Toenails Safely
Improper nail cutting can lead to ingrown toenails, which increase infection risk. A nail care nurse can provide safe toenail trimming to prevent issues.
4. Choose the Right Footwear
Wear well-fitted shoes with good support to protect your feet. Avoid walking barefoot to prevent cuts or scrapes.
5. Manage Blood Sugar Levels
Keeping blood sugar levels within a healthy range helps prevent circulation issues that lead to foot ulcers and infections.
6. Seek Professional Foot Care Services
Regular visits with a foot care nurse ensure early detection and treatment of any potential foot issues. Those who have difficulty leaving home can benefit from in-home foot care services provided by a mobile foot care nurse.
How In-Home Foot Care Services Can Help
Many seniors and individuals with diabetes struggle to maintain proper foot care due to mobility challenges, vision impairments, or difficulty reaching their feet. This is where in-home foot care services come in.
A mobile foot care nurse visits your home and provides expert diabetic foot care, including:
Toenail trimming to prevent ingrown nails and infections
Diabetic foot assessments to identify potential issues
Moisturizing treatments to prevent skin cracks and dryness
Education on proper daily foot care routines
Prioritize Your Foot Health Today
Preventing foot complications starts with proper diabetic foot care and early intervention. If you or a loved one needs toenail trimming, diabetic foot assessments, or support from a foot care nurse, Remember When HealthCare is here to help.
Our experienced mobile foot care nurse offers in-home foot care services to ensure that you receive expert treatment in the comfort of your home.
References
Canadian Diabetes Association. (2023). Diabetes and foot care: What you need to know. https://www.diabetes.ca
Diabetes Canada. (2023). Preventing diabetic foot complications. https://www.diabetes.ca
Government of Canada. (2023). Diabetes in Canada: Facts and figures. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/diseases-conditions/diabetes.html
Public Health Agency of Canada. (2023). Diabetes foot care guidelines. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/chronic-diseases/diabetes/foot-care.html
Wound Canada. (2023). Preventing diabetic foot ulcers. https://www.woundscanada.ca
Comments