I have been a insulin dependent diabetic for 9 years now and I’ve discovered that foot care is one of the most important parts of caring for ourselves. Recently this has been made clearer to me as I battle an infected ingrown toenail. I have had to fight against the infection and the ignorance of health care workers. Any infection is serious for a diabetic, but an infection on an extremity is especially dangerous. If untreated it can lead to gangrene and amputation quicker than you think. That is not a scare tactic. That is the truth.

As diabetics, we should remember that what happens to our extremities is usually 10 times more damaging than it is with a healthy person. Even the smallest of wounds can cause serious health problems due to reduced circulation and slow healing. Diabetes can supress your immune system, so always contact a health care professional if you have a wound that is slow to heal or seems infected.

The best kept secret I know of is Epsom salt. I wish I owned stock in this company because this stuff is fabulous. I use it for soaking in the bathtub. It softens the skin and when used regularly can soften your toenails which can make trimming them easier and safer. Just remember that you should NEVER use hot water and ALWAYS dry your feet well, especially between the toes. Keep those toenails cut straight and never cut too close to the quick.

You should inspect your feet daily for any slow healing wounds or abnormalities. Use lotion to keep the skin soft, but do not apply it between your toes. Be sure to wear shoes that fit correctly and to check them often for foreign objects. A blister can be your worst enemy. When they burst they are prime sites for infection. If you wear socks, make sure they are loose and preferably made of cotton so your feet can breathe. The key is to make sure that your feet are not too moist or too dry. NEVER go barefoot. Circulation to the feet is reduced in most diabetics. This can impair your ability to feel extreme heat or cold and pain. That can lead to injuries.

Also, avoid habits that impair your circulation. Do not sit with your legs crossed or tucked underneath your body. Believe me on this one. I had a bad habit of sitting with my right ankle underneath my left thigh. The pressure ulcer that resulted was stuff nightmares are made of. Not only was it very painful, but also very frightening. For almost 3 months there was the daily threat that I could lose part of my ankle and foot.

You should not wear tight socks, pantyhose, knee highs, or garters. NEVER use a razor blade or knife on your feet. ALWAYS have your doctor or nurse to remove corns or calluses. Using Epsom salt in your bath water and applying lotion daily will help reduce the need to have them removed.

Remember, these are the only feet you will ever have. Treat them well. Amputation is painful and traumatic, but can be avoided with a little time and care. Your health care professionals cannot do it all. You have to help them. After all it is your body.