M.D. Whether walking, running, cycling or gardening, very little attention is given to the importance of pain-free feet until they aren't. Though three out of four Americans will experience some type of foot problem in a lifetime, if you are one of the 16 million diabetics, taking extra care of your health and feet becomes a big priority. Diabetes knows no age limits and affects athletes and non-athletes alike. Regardless of the type of diabetes, paying close attention to the lower extremities may help prevent foot ulcers.
Diabetics are susceptible to vascular disease, loss of sensation and infections of the feet.
This loss of sensation and development of deformities may create abnormal pressure points and friction, placing the individual at risk for ulcerations. When diabetes strikes the elderly, these foot problems become the No. 1 reason for hospitalization. Education about the importance of self-care is an integral part of managing this part of diabetes. This includes daily foot inspection, careful washing and drying techniques and donning appropriate footwear. Studies have shown that paying attention to good footwear markedly reduces the incidence of wounds.