About 20% of the people diagnosed with diabetes are hospitalized because of issues concerning their feet. The foot of a diabetic can cause a number of possible critical conditions for them to be in. Blood flow problems in the legs, like atherosclerosis, can put the foot in peril for injury and infections.

It would be difficult for a diabetic to feel with his foot if he has neuropathy, which causes nerve damage. If not treated accordingly, it will lead to other complications which will cause infection and skin breakdown.

By keen observation of a diabetic’s foot, one can prevent possible ailments. One should inform the doctor if there are observed changes in color, numbness, pain, tingling or burning sensations and temperature change of the foot immediately. Observe the healing duration of injuries or open wounds. Inform the doctor if it’s healing slower than normal.

Dry, cracked and peeling skin indicates that the moisture producing nerves of the foot are having problems. Bacteria courses its way to the body through these peels and cracks. To prevent this, use petroleum based lotions or salves to aid the nerves and almost eradicate the cracks. Avoid putting to much lotion between the toes because it may lead to other problems.

With the aid of a pumice stone, you can soften calluses. If this doesn’t work, consult a doctor to prevent it from being hard and thick, which leads to ulcer.

Wearing shoes that are too tight may cause ulcer or open sores. It grows around the bottom of the big toe, at the ball of the foot, and also on the sides, top or heel of the foot. If the skin turns red, it may lead to skin breakdown, and diabetics should be conscious about this because open sores can start infections that may require leg amputation. In order to avoid ulcers to get worse or have other infections, some diabetics wear a cast to minimize the pressure on the legs.

Here are some tips on how to prevent the aforementioned issues from taking place: Monitor your sugar level. Stay fit. The legs and feet are strained due to the extra weight you may have. It would also be a little difficult to check your foot closely if you have a big bulge. Regularly inspect your feet or ask assistance from someone. Use smooth socks and not bunched when put on. Inspect shoes for foreign objects; the effects of the smallest obstruction can lead to catastrophic effects. Always wear something to protect your feet. You might step on something and cause open wounds. Check the temperature of the water bath with your hands first. If there are problems with the nerves on your feet, you won’t be able to feel if you’re already burning or not. Do not use heating pads on the feet. Make sure that after taking a bath your feet are dried well, especially between the toes. Quit smoking. Poor blood circulation, caused by smoking, increases the risk of nerve damage and slow healing.

A diabetic with poor senses in the foot should let a podiatrist trim toenails, trim calluses, and remove corns, to eliminate the risk of infection.

Diabetics should keenly observe their feet for any sign of irregularity to prevent hospitalization for foot related issues and even the amputation of the lower limb.

Julia Hanf author of the book How To Play the Diabetes Diet Game and Win Through a real life crisis Julia figured out how to live diabetes free. Visit http://www.yourdiabetescure.com and learn more about your solution for diabetes.