Diabetes Information
Diabetes can lead to a host of problems and one thing we stress here at BeaconOrtho Ltd is proper foot care. We want to be sure our patients have the resources and the knowhow to care for themselves so they can continue to thrive in life. Here is a great guideline to DAILY foot care. foot care: a step toward good health (diabetes.ca) Should you notice anything in your daily inspection that seems like a problem, consult your doctor.
While not all persons with diabetes must wear diabetic socks, they certainly have their advantages. Diabetes can have a concerning effect on the blood flow and sensation in a person’s foot and so individuals need to be more aware of their feet and the injury risk associated with these deficits. A diabetic sock will wick away sweat to help keep the foot dry. People with diabetes are at risk of developing ulcers and infection can quickly follow. Diabetic socks can provide cushioning and support the feet to reduce the development of ulcers. Increasing circulation is another bonus of diabetic socks. There is usually a non-elastic feature to prevent any constricting or tightening that could increase blood flow problems but there is a structure to the sock that promotes better circulation and reduces fluid pooling in the lower limbs. Diabetic socks are easy to find. Here is a link to a few brands endorsed by the Canadian Podiatric Medical Association – https://www.podiatrycanada.org/approved-products/socks/ If you have trouble finding diabetic socks, we can help!
How to Prevent a Wound
- Check your feet and monitor any problematic areas. Using tricks like a mirror on the floor, wearing white socks, and having a friend or partner help you check the areas that are difficult to see can make it easy to make this part of your daily routine.
- Here is another link with more tips. Always consult your physician if you notice any areas that look different or concerning. https://www.woundscanada.ca/for-patients-public/240-diabetic-healthy-feet-and-you/for-patients-and-public/267-information-about-diabetes-and-healthy-feet#monitor
- If you have a wound, you need to be very diligent in caring for it and the surrounding skin. Be sure to consult your physician for specific instructions they may have for you. Here are some tips to help care for your wound at home https://www.woundscanada.ca/patient-or-caregiver/resources
How to Choose the Right Shoe
Shoe choice and care is really important for a person who may have poor sensation, or feeling, in their foot. Individuals with diabetes and peripheral neuropathy are at increased risk of foot injury and ulcer development. Choosing the right shoe can help prevent problems before they develop. Shoes should be well fitting – at least ½”- ¾” longer than your foot. They should be made of a breathable material or leather and there should be no seams across the toes. Shoes can be extra deep to help accommodate a custom insert as well as any toe or foot deformity. If you need help finding shoes, we can help! Call our office for an appointment. In the meantime, here is a helpful link to learn more about what to look for when shopping for shoes. https://www.diabetes.ca/diabetescanadawebsite/media/managing-my-diabetes/tools%20and%20resources/finding-the-proper-shoe-fit.pdf?ext=.pdf
Helpful Links
A Patient’s checklist for some Dos and Don’ts in your self care.