Wounds on the feet due to diabetes-related neuropathy and circulatory disorders can quickly turn into serious health problems. Experts state that podiatrists, who deal with foot health and diseases and offer supportive treatment and care services, are an indispensable part of the multidisciplinary approach in diabetes management, warning, 'Do not walk barefoot, choose the right shoes, and do not neglect regular check-ups.'
Podiatrist Meldağ Turhan, explaining what diabetic individuals should pay attention to when choosing shoes, said, 'Shoes with heels between 2-4 cm should be preferred. Shoes made of soft material should be chosen.'
Üsküdar Üniversitesi Health Services Vocational School, Department of Podiatry, Lecturer Meldağ Turhan provided information on foot health and care in diabetes.
What happens when neuropathy starts in diabetic patients?
Lecturer Meldağ Turhan, stating that podiatrists who deal with foot health and diseases and offer supportive treatment and care services play a role in the foot care of patients, said, “In diabetic patients, neuropathy (loss of sensation) begins, so wounds heal slowly or not at all, and small cuts and abrasions can lead to major problems. Foot deformities start to develop as pressure points change.”
How do podiatrists play a role in patients' foot care?
Lecturer Meldağ Turhan also explained how podiatrists play a role in the foot care of patients as follows:
- Podiatrists regularly examine the feet of diabetic patients
- Apply neuropathy (sensation loss test) to patients
- Check the temperature of the foot
- Examine foot deformities
- Take measures to prevent the progression of problems such as ingrown toenails and calluses
- Recommend appropriate footwear
- Take preventive measures against infections
- Provide individuals with information on how to perform foot care at home.
Feet should be checked daily!
Turhan, also explaining what diabetic individuals should pay attention to in daily foot care, continued as follows:
- Feet should be checked daily. If necessary, the soles of the feet and between the toes should be checked with the help of a mirror
- Moisturize except between the toes
- Nails should be neither too short nor too long and cut straight
- Socks should be changed daily, and white color should be preferred
- Avoid excessive heat (hot sand, washing with hot water, warming feet on heaters)
What are the measures to prevent the growth of diabetic foot ulcers?
Lecturer Meldağ Turhan, also stating the measures to be taken to prevent the growth of diabetic foot ulcers, continued as follows:
- Should not walk barefoot
- Due to the high risk of infection, professional help from a podiatrist must be sought for foot care
- Regular foot check-ups should be performed
- Pay attention to hygiene
- Keep blood sugar under control
- Protect from trauma
- Regular exercise should be done
Diabetic individuals should choose shoes made of soft material
Lecturer Meldağ Turhan, also explaining what diabetic individuals should pay attention to when choosing shoes, provided the following information:
- Shoes should be wide and adjustable
- Flexible shoes should be preferred due to the possibility of edema in the foot during the day
- Inner foot cushioning and support should be provided
- Shoes with heels between 2-4 cm should be preferred
- Shoes made of soft material should be chosen
- Should be breathable
- Shoes designed for diabetic individuals that provide extra protection should be preferred