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Even small or superficial wounds of your legs or feet can be potentially very serious if you have diabetes, Type 1 or Type 2. Something as simple as a stubbed toe, a splinter or a blister can turn into a major injury if not attended to promptly and correctly. The reason for this is uncontrolled blood sugar levels can cause damage and numb your response to pain and slow the healing process in several ways:
- neuropathy (nerve damage) is a common side effect of Type 2 diabetes, and often affects the lower extremities as the longest nerves are the most vulnerable. This can lead to small cuts or blisters from being noticed until they become infected due to loss of sensation
- poor circulation can keep blood from reaching the extremities. This is another reason Type 2 diabetics have trouble healing
- many diabetics, both Type 1 or Type 2, also have a weakened immune system which slows healing and makes it harder to fight off infection.
Neuropathy is a potentially serious condition since it removes the warning that people receive when their feet are being damaged. People with loss of sensation in their feet must have regular (daily) foot checks and follow the advice of their specialist regarding footwear. Properly fitted shoes are a must, and special stockings can be obtained to increase circulation in your legs and feet. Socks can also be found that will 'wick' moisture away from your feet.
Avoiding Complications: Feet should be kept clean and moisturized, and an anti-fungal gel used between the toes to ward off athlete's foot. Always check your footwear before wearing for worn spots or pebbles. Toenails should be kept carefully trimmed, and ingrown toenails, cracked heels or any other injury attended to promptly.
Type 2 diabetics who do suffer a wound should seek immediate treatment to stave off infection and promote swift healing. Leg and foot injuries are particularly dangerous as the lower extremities are prone to swelling which too can significantly slow healing.
Treatment of Wounds: When a diabetic treats wounds, it is best to follow a strict protocol:
- all wounds should be disinfected as soon as possible, and cleaned out thoroughly with plain water
- then the wound should be medicated as instructed and
- covered loosely but securely (pressure should be kept off the wound).
Often with foot or leg wounds, rest is recommended. Any pressure on a wound on the foot can cause it to re-open, and a wound on the leg can also re-open if your leg swells. If severe infection sets in, amputation could end up being necessary, so it is imperative that wounds be dealt with quickly and efficiently.
If you have severe Type 2 diabetes, it is advised a podiatrist should be part of your medical team. Regular inspection of your legs and feet can provide an early detection of any problem, and prevent a small injury from turning into a potentially life threatening one.
Exercises for Diabetics with Peripheral Neuropathy: Peripheral neuropathy affects your balance as well as numbing your feet. Avoid exercises that use your feet, eg. jogging or running. A treadmill machine where you can stabilize yourself is preferable. Best exercises include:
- swimming
- exercises done while seated
- cycling on a stationary bike
- rowing
- floor exercises
are suitable options for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics with peripheral neuropathy.
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Beverleigh Piepers RN... the Diabetes Detective.
http://drugfreetype2diabetes.com/blog
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