A Place for Mom's Family

Just this week I have talked with two families concerning thier diabetic family member.  One had a recent amputation below the knee and the other is unable to walk due to foot ulcers.  This type of problem can contribute to so many other issues, like finding a new home.  Personally, as a type 2 diabetic I have been warned to take good care of my feet, etc, and I never really thought about all the consequences for not doing so.  The education of diabetics is so important, along with continued reinforcement, to help prevent these dire situations!

Your  foot has been called the mirror of health. By podiatrists and doctors who are foot and ankle specialists and are always the first ones to see the warning signs of such systematic conditions as diabetes,athritis and circulatory deseases in the foot.They say among these symptoms are dry skin,brittle nails itching and tingling sensation,burning,numbness and disclararition to be safe you should always see your primary physcian or podiatrist if you have any of this symptons. My grandmother had a lot of numbness and feeling cold sensations all the time and when we saw a podiatrist it was just poor circulation from lack of excersing as she is on a wheelchair he gave us a chart of things for her to do to help and that has improved her feet so much no more complaints.

My father has type II diabetes and has had a number of problems with his feet lately. I have been learning how important properly fitting shoes are for a diabetic. Shoes and custom insoles that are specially designed to meet the needs of diabetics' feet is fully or partially covered by Medicare or private insurance once each year.

It is very important for a diabetic to have their shoes custom fitted by a trained professional, since they may not be able to feel an improper fit, due to peripheral neuropathy. By ensuring proper fit and good air circulation, properly designed diabetic shoes and insoles prevent pressure ulcers, encourage good blood circulation, and allow the skin to breathe.

Some things to look for in good shoe designs for diabetics are:

• Diabetic Shoes need to have a breathable construction - sandals and fabric shoes are good for this.
• Deep and wide designs that allow room for custom pedorthic insoles.
• Designs with no interior seams (or covered seams) to prevent
  rubbing injurie.s
• Diabetic Shoes need a roomy "toe box" to prevent pinching or squeezing of the toes.
• Elastic or easily adjustable fit, to prevent the
  diabetic shoe from sliding around on the feet.

I spoke with a family yesterday that mom has diabetes and just recently had a ingrown toenail removed.  She also has dementia --Since then her short term memory has decreased dramatically.  She can't remember where the bathroom is and when she gets out of the bathroom, she can't remember which way to go to get back to her television room.  Having trouble remembering to do anything.  Daughter is wondering if it could be her medication.  I have told her to check with her doctor, but has anyone had this type of situation before???