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Diabetes

Foot care crucial for diabetics

Diabetes can cause nerve damage that may reduce feeling in the feet of those with disease. Self-testing devices are available to diabetics to help monitor feeling in their feet. Diabetics should test their feet every three months, or as directed by a physician.

In addition to checking their feet with a self-testing device, listed below are other things diabetics can do to take care of their feet.

Daily exams

  • Look for cuts or sores
  • Check for warning signs — redness, swelling, warmth, pain, dry cracks, bleeding corns or calluses and tenderness.

Daily care

  • Wash feet daily and dry them carefully, especially between the toes
  • Use talcum powder
  • Do not cut corns or calluses — use a foot care specialist if needed
  • Keep toenails trimmed and smooth
  • Promptly treat dry skin or athlete's foot
  • Keep blood glucose levels under control

Periodic foot exam by a physician

  • Annual exam for everyone with diabetes or every three to six months for those at high risk
  • Take off shoes and socks at every physician visit
  • Ask for a risk evaluation

Footwear

  • Wear shoes and socks at all times
  • Don't wear shoes and socks that are too tight
  • Wear well-cushioned shoes
  • Buy shoes that are roomy and "breathe"
  • People diagnosed with foot problems may need special footwear

Resources available:

The following items are available free to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma and BlueLincs HMO members enrolled in the diabetes health promotion program.

  • Monofilament self-tester (tests for sensation loss in feet)
  • Managing your Diabetes (self-care diary)

E-mail us for more information on the diabetes health promotion program or call toll-free 1-866-670-6681.

FEP members e-mail here or call toll-free at 1-866-670-6681.