Uncontrolled blood sugar levels affect the nerves and blood vessels to your feet causing peripheral neuropathy and numbness and loss of sensation at the extremities. This is accompanied by tingling and burning sensation under the feet which aggravates at night.
How to take care of your feet
- Check your feet daily for any wounds, discolorations or fungal infections between the toe.
- Wash your feet in lukewarm water and never in hot water.
- Never soak your feet for long in water as it dries up your skin further.
- Apply a moisturizer on your feet. Never apply it between your toes as it can initiate fungal infections. Use a moisturizer regularly as it would avoid dryness and chapping of skin.
- Always use clean and dry socks. Change them regularly.
- Never use tight footwear as it can cause cuts and ulcers in your feet. Always go for comfortable fitting footwear.
- Cut nails carefully. Never use a blade or a knife to cut it. Cut them straight and file the edges to avoid sharp ends and ingrown toenails.
- Never treat corns or calluses yourself. Avoid cutting it on your own. Consult your podiatrist for appropriate treatment.
- Keep your sugar levels always under control.
- Avoid smoking. Smoking reduces the blood flow towards your feet.
- Always inspect your shoes before wearing them. Check for any insects or other foreign bodies inside the shoe.
- Get regular foot examinations done. This can protect you from several complications of diabetic foot.