Foot Care for Active Patients Who Have Diabetes

In brief Staying active is important for people who have diabetes. Because of potential complications of the disease, however, some cautions and adjustments need to be considered, especially regarding the feet. For example, neuropathy that decreases pain perception may lead to an unnoticed foot injury, or peripheral vascular disease may cause pain that hinders activity. Patient education about self-foot care, including visual inspection, hygiene, and proper footwear, is central to management. The presence of diabetes may affect injury treatment: For example, casting may be appropriate for sprained ankle in a patient who has neuropathy.