Secrets to Caring for Diabetic Heels

Diabetes can affect many parts of the body, especially the feet and heels. According to the American Diabetes Association, about 15.7 million Americans (5.9 percent of the United States population) have diabetes. It is very important that a diabetic gives the feet very special care. A small problem in a healthy person could become a severe one to a diabetic.

Diabetes can affect the feet in a number of different ways. The first is infection, which is one of the most common complications of the diabetic foot. Because diabetes causes reduced immune response, a diabetic patient's ability to fight infection is decreased. Early treatment of infection is a critical component to success. If neglected, infection of the foot can cause gangrene, ulceration, osteomyelitis, and even amputation.

Another complication of diabetes called neuropathy causes decreased sensation to pain and temperature. This may cause a patient to underestimate a foot problem. It may also be responsible for an absence of perspiration leading to dry, cracking skin that can more easily become infected.

With a diabetic foot, a wound as small as a blister from wearing a shoe that is too tight can cause a lot of damage. Diabetes decreases blood flow, so injuries are slow to heal. When your wound is not healing, it's at risk for infection. As a diabetic, your infections spread quickly. If you have diabetes, you should inspect your feet every day. Look for punctures wounds, bruises, pressure areas, redness, warmth, blisters, ulcers, scratches, and cuts. Get someone to help you, or use a mirror. Diabetic foot care can be very complicated and good podiatric care is an essential component of managing diabetes.