With over 11% of the Indian population and more than 1 in 4 seniors grappling with diabetes, the impact of this condition on overall health is a growing concern. While diabetes affects the entire body, its specific implications for foot health are of paramount importance. Nerve damage caused by diabetes can lead to foot problems like ulcers, requiring prolonged healing.
Preventing Diabetes-Related Foot Problems:
Preventing nerve damage, or peripheral neuropathy, is the foremost strategy in mitigating diabetes-related foot issues. Maintaining tight control over blood sugar levels is crucial, as consistently high glucose levels stand as the leading cause of peripheral neuropathy. Collaborate with your physician to devise and implement a comprehensive plan, including regular foot checks for neuropathy at least once or twice a year.
Foot Protection Regardless of Neuropathy:
Foot protection is vital for all individuals with diabetes, with particular emphasis for those diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy. Safeguarding against foot complications involves prioritizing proper footwear—shoes, inserts, and socks—whenever standing or walking. The practice of walking barefoot is strongly discouraged for people with diabetes. "Proper" footwear denotes shoes that authentically fit your feet, fitted by an expert shoe-fitting specialist, ensuring they match the unique shape of your feet and provide cushion, support, and protection.
Medicare Coverage for Footwear:
For Medicare beneficiaries, the news is positive—coverage is provided for special shoes and inserts designed for those with diabetes and foot-related conditions. Initiate this process by consulting your podiatrist or primary care physician, who can guide you to a therapeutic shoe-fitting specialist. Some podiatric practices may even provide these shoes in-office. While the Medicare process involves specific paperwork, patience is essential, as your doctor and the shoe supplier work through the requirements.
Rest Assured with Preventive Measures:
Online research about diabetes and its potential impact on the feet can be alarming, but rest assured that most, if not all, of the concerning aspects are preventable. The first and fundamental step in this prevention is the use of excellent footwear.
