Treating Fissured Heels in Diabetes: A Guide
Diabetes can have a significant impact on foot health due to nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor blood circulation, leading to numbness, decreased sensation, dry and cracked skin, calluses, and slow-healing wounds such as foot ulcers[1][2][4].
For instance, cracked heels in individuals with diabetes result from reduced nerve function and poor circulation, making the skin more vulnerable to fissures that can become entry points for infection[2][4].
To manage cracked heels effectively, it's essential to adopt a daily foot care routine focusing on gentle cleansing and thorough moisturizing to prevent dryness and cracking[1][4]. Use diabetic-safe, fragrance-free moisturizers to hydrate the skin without causing irritation.
Avoid open-heeled footwear that aggravates pressure and dryness and perform regular inspection of feet, ideally daily, to detect any cracks, cuts, or infections early since decreased sensation can mask injury[1][4].
In cases where skin cracks or ulcers develop, prompt medical treatment is essential, including cleaning wounds, applying appropriate dressings, and controlling blood sugar to promote healing and prevent infection[1][3][5]. Professional podiatric care can also help in trimming calluses safely, treating existing cracks or ulcers, and recommending specialized wound care if needed[5].
Preventing foot problems in diabetes relies on consistent, proactive foot care and early intervention by healthcare professionals experienced in diabetic foot management[1][5].
Wearing well-fitting shoes provides appropriate support and avoids injuries such as blisters. Trimming toenails straight across and keeping them short helps prevent infection. Regular foot exams by a podiatrist can help catch health concerns early[4].
Maintaining regular physical activity supports adequate blood flow to the feet and can help avoid foot health concerns. Managing blood sugar and keeping it within a stable range can help reduce the risk of foot health complications from diabetes[4].
Washing, drying, and moisturizing the feet is necessary to keep them clean and hydrated. The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA) recommends taking shorter baths, using a gentle cleanser, moisturizing after bathing, applying petroleum jelly before bed, protecting the heels, wearing proper footwear, and consulting a podiatrist for severe cases or if no improvement is noticed[3].
In severe cases, amputation may be necessary when wounds do not heal on the foot[1]. Taking proactive steps to care for your feet can help prevent potential complications and ensure a healthier lifestyle for those with diabetes.
[1] Diabetes UK (2021) Diabetes and your feet. Available at: https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/complications/diabetic-foot-problems
[2] Mayo Clinic (2018) Diabetes complications: Foot problems. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/foot-problems/art-20047811
[3] American Academy of Dermatology (2021) Diabetes and your skin. Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/other/diabetes-skin-care
[4] NHS (2020) Diabetes - Foot care. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/diabetes-foot-care/
[5] Podiatry Today (2020) Diabetes and the foot. Available at: https://www.podiatrytoday.com/diabetes-foot-management
- Chronic kidney disease, like diabetes, demands careful foot health management due to its effect on blood circulation and nerve damage.
- Science reveals that a lack of circulation and nerve damage can lead to foot ulcers, numbness, and reduced sensation in patients with COPD and type-2 diabetes.
- Ignoring skin conditions in individuals with chronic diseases, such as multiple sclerosis or rheumatoid arthritis, can lead to infections and slower healing.
- Migraines, neurological disorders, and Autoimmune disorders can impact overall health and wellness, including eye-health, hearing, and mental-health.
- Skin-care is crucial in managing health and wellness, with skin conditions like psoriasis requiring appropriate therapies and treatments.
- Health-and-wellness includes men's health, with prostate issues and other ailments requiring regular screenings and exams.
- Women's health extends beyond reproduction and focuses on breast cancer, osteoporosis, and other conditions such as migraines.
- Parenting involves understanding family-health risks, including the impact of chronic diseases like cancer and cardiovascular health on children.
- Medically susceptible individuals may require Medicare coverage for treatments related to eye-health, hearing, and mental-health.
- Hearing complications can occur in people with respiratory conditions like COPD, impacting communication and overall health.
- Digestive-health is essential for overall well-being, with chronic-diseases like IBS and acid reflux impacting quality of life.
- In some cases, Womens-health involves addressing sexual-health matters, such as menopause and pelvic pain.
- CBD oil can be beneficial for certain chronic-conditions like chronic-kidney-disease and autoimmune-disorders, although more research is needed.
- Lifestyle changes, including proper diet and exercise, are vital in managing chronic-diseases like type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular-health.
- Mindful parenting consists of understanding and addressing mental-health needs in children, including Alzheimer's disease.
- Regular foot exams, wearing well-fitted shoes, and adopting a daily foot care routine are important practices in maintaining good foot health, particularly for individuals with diabetes and other chronic-conditions.
