4 Ways To Prevent Nerve Damage To Your Feet When You Have Diabetes

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Hi. My name’s Gregory Grossman. I’m 52 years old and have suffered from ingrown toenails for as long as I can remember. They are torturous! Most of mine would get infected and take weeks to heal. I went to my family doctor numerous times. He would do the best he could to help relieve the pain and speed up the healing process. However, they always came back. Two years ago I sought out a podiatrist. He gave me information about my options. He also told me that my nails were too wide, and there was nothing I could do to avoid this ailment. I opted for the procedure that would permanently remove the excess nail and deaden the area so the nail wouldn't grow back. I had my other foot done just last week. I’m going to share all I have learned and hope it helps you!

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4 Ways To Prevent Nerve Damage To Your Feet When You Have Diabetes

21 September 2015
 Categories: , Blog

Individuals who have diabetes sometimes develop a condition known as diabetic nerve pain. Diabetic nerve pain is when an area of one's body becomes so sensitive that even an extremely soft touch or brush of pressure can send shooting pain through one's body. Diabetic nerve pain tends to show up more in people's feet and legs who have this condition. If you have diabetes, you can prevent diabetic nerve damage from occurring, especially in your feet, by taking a few preventative measures.    

#1 Control Your Blood Sugar

One of the most important steps you can take to prevent side effects from developing is to take control of your blood sugar levels. Make sure you monitor your blood sugar levels throughout the day, and adjust your insulin and food intake accordingly.

Leaving your blood sugar levels unchecked not only makes you feel tired and drowsy, it also has a negative effect on your blood flow. One of the many consequences of diabetes is that your blood does not flow as well as it should to your feet and legs; taking control of your blood sugar and your diet is one of the ways you can combat this common diabetes side effect.

#2 Wash Your Feet On A Daily Basis

One of the simplest ways of preventing infections and nerve damage from developing on your feet is by washing them every day. Even if you don't feel up for a shower, make sure you sit down with a clean washcloth and use it to wash your feet.

#3 Check Your Feet On A Daily Basis

Since many individuals who suffer from diabetes develop foot complications, you should check your feet every day for the presence of blisters and infections. Just make it a part of your morning routine. When you take a shower or when you dry off from your shower, sit down and give your feet a quick once-over. By addressing and treating any blisters or infections as soon as you spot them, you can reduce your chances of suffering from nerve damage to your foot as a result of your diabetes.  

#4 Wear Comfortable Shoes And Socks

Everyone should wear comfortable shoes; however, when you have diabetes, wearing comfortable shoes becomes even more important. Your diabetes prevents your feet from getting the level of circulation that they need, so you need to make sure that you do everything you can to make sure your feet are comfortable and warm. That includes wearing thick, well-fitted socks every day with shoes that support your feet and don't cause any unnecessary harm to them.

If you want to avoid the diabetic nerve pain, and specifically nerve pain in your feet, keep your blood sugar levels under control and eat a healthy diet. Also, do everything you can to keep your feet clean and comfortable every day. By paying attention to your feet and providing them with a little extra pampering, you can prevent nerve damage from occurring. If you need advice or assistance with how to take care of your feet, talk to your podiatrist (such as one from Camden County Foot & Ankle Center) for more specific suggestions gears towards your feet and your lifestyle.