It is predicted that by 2040 there will be over 642 million people with diabetes in the world. With the lifetime incidence of foot ulcers occurring in up to 25% of patients, we need to pay far more attention to the diabetic foot and shift our focus to preventing ulcers rather than treating them. Diabetes morbidity rates are staggeringly high and the 5-year mortality rate, after a lower extremity amputation, is only second to lung cancer.
Keeping people on their feet, walking and mobile is fundamental to preventing the progression of lifestyle related diseases. But people will not walk if they have pain, balance issues or fear they are doing more damage to their feet; and they are unable to walk if they have open ulcers on the plantar surface of their feet. Once these problems arise, people often become increasingly sedentary, and with decreased physical activity, short and long-term blood glucose levels will increase, people put on weight and overall health declines steadily.
To avoid serious foot problems that could result in losing a toe, foot, or leg, the PodoSaude Sul, Foot Clinic advise you to follow these guidelines:
• Inspect your feet daily. Check for cuts, blisters, or nail problems. Use a hand mirror to look at the bottom of your feet.
• Wash your feet in lukewarm water. Keep your feet clean by washing them daily.The temperature you’d use on a newborn baby.
• Be gentle when bathing your feet. Wash them using a sponge and make sure to carefully dry between the toes.
• Moisturise your feet—but not between your toes. Use a moisturiser daily to keep dry skin from itching or cracking.
• Cut nails carefully—and straight across. Also, file the edges. Don’t cut them too short, since this could lead to ingrown toe nails.
• Never trim corns or calluses. No “bathroom surgery”—let your doctor do the job.
• Wear clean, dry socks. Change them daily. Avoid tight elastic bands (they reduce circulation).
Prof. Doutor João Martiniano, Professor and Director of Podiatry Degree in Health School of Portuguese Red Cross of Lisbon
Techinical Director and Podiatrist in PodoSaude Sul, Foot Clinic, Portimão

For more information Tel. Portimão: 282429154 or Lagos: 282763026