In places like Tamil Nadu, it gets really hot and humid during summer, which means diabetics need to take extra care for their feet. Due to reduced pain sensation, diabetics are at a higher risk of developing foot complications. Here, in this blog, let’s learn about important Foot care for diabetics during the summer season.
Essential Foot care for diabetics
Exercises Regularly
Do regular diabetic-friendly exercises like walking, yoga, or swimming. Further, these activities will increase your blood circulation to the feet and will aid in managing your weight. Also, it is important to wear suitable footwear during exercise to prevent foot injuries.
Avoid Heat Exposure
In Tamil Nadu’s hot climate, direct exposure of your feet to extreme heat sources like hot sand, pavements, or water can cause burns and other injuries. Diabetics, who have reduced sensitivity in their feet, should be very careful.
Manage blood Sugar levels
Proper control of diabetes through medication, diet, and exercise is important. Additionally, managing other health conditions that can affect foot health, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol, is essential.
Take Seasonal Care
During monsoon, the risk of fungal infections increases due to the excess moisture. In contrast, the summer heat requires protecting the feet from dryness, humidity and heat injuries. Thus, seasonal Foot care for diabetics is important.
Community and Resources
Use our community awareness programs to educate yourself more about diabetic Foot care for diabetics. Moreover, our diabetic care centers offer workshops, and free screenings that focus on diabetes management and foot care.
Custom Footwear
Consider using custom-made diabetic footwear, which can help distribute foot pressure evenly, reducing the risk of ulcers. These are helpful for individuals with foot deformities, previous ulcers, or severe diabetic neuropathy.
Get regular Foot Checkups
Regularly visit your diabetologist/physician. They can help in early identification and management of potential foot problems. They will also offer personalized solutions to your specific health needs and lifestyle.
Mental Well-Being
Diabetes management can be stressful, which can impact your psychological well-being. Stress can affect blood glucose levels and your overall health. So, follow stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or counselling services.
Additional Tips on Foot care for diabetics
- Check your feet daily for cuts, blisters, redness, or nail issues.
- Clean your feet with gentle soap and warm water. Make sure to dry it thoroughly, especially between toes.
- Apply moisturizer to prevent cracks, avoiding application between toes to reduce the risk of fungal infection.
- Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes to protect your feet.
- Avoid walking barefoot, mainly on hot surfaces.
- Choose moisture-wicking socks to keep feet dry and reduce blister risks.
- Trim nails straight across and file edges to prevent ingrown toenails.
- Avoid tight footwear.
- Drink an adequate amount of water and eat a healthy, balanced diet.
Following these simple tips every day can help prevent any foot complications.
To Sum-up
Foot care for diabetics is important, especially in the hot summers. By following the guidelines and tips we have shared, people with diabetes can avoid seasonal and other foot problems and stay healthier. Doing these simple things every day can make a big difference and improve your quality of life with diabetes.
