What is the diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus is defined as a set of metabolic disorders, in which blood glucose levels are persistently or chronically elevated. This high concentration of glucose in the blood is due to: a defect in the production of insulin, a resistance to the action of insulin, an increase in the production of glucose or a combination of these causes. Types: Type 1 diabetes: the body does not produce insulin. Type 2 diabetes: this is the most common, the body does not produce or use insulin properly, so glucose remains in the blood.

What is the diabetic foot?

The diabetic foot is one that, due to diabetes, is exposed to suffering from pathologies triggered by it. Over time, diabetes can cause damage to nerves and blood vessels, thus causing a loss of sensation in the feet, due to poor vascularization and oxygenation of the tissues. It is then possible that a cut, blister or sore is not felt, causing ulcers and infections to appear on the foot, which in the most severe cases can even cause amputation.

How important is the podiatrist in a diabetic patient?

The Podiatrist is the professional in charge of the care of the foot in the diabetic patient, with the prevention, treatment and health education of the patient being paramount. Depending on the data obtained in the clinical examination and the patient’s level of risk, the purpose of the Podiatrist is to carry out a comprehensive prevention of the foot, aimed at avoiding injuries and correcting possible support disorders that could potentially cause them.

Tips or precautions that a diabetic should follow with their feet:

1. Keep your blood glucose level under control.
2. Avoid walking barefoot so as not to suffer an injury caused by objects on the ground.
3. Wash your feet every day with mild soap and warm water.
4. Use moisturizer to keep the skin of the feet soft and hydrated.
5. Avoid cold feet, using socks that are not tight.
6. Wear comfortable shoes that are not stiff.
7. Inspect the feet every day for any abnormalities.
8. Go to the Podiatrist periodically for proper nail cutting and care, and thus have a regular and thorough check of the feet.