Is going barefoot okay with my diabetes? (2024)

FAQs

Is going barefoot okay with my diabetes? ›

What starts as a tiny abrasion can become a life-altering problem if it isn't discovered and treated early. It's much easier to take steps to avoid getting a wound in the first place than it is to deal with an extreme medical emergency down the line. Simply put, if you are diabetic, you should avoid walking barefoot.

Walking barefoot leaves your feet unprotected and puts you at risk for injury. These injuries can occur when walking indoors at home, at the beach or pool, in your back yard, or a gym locker room. If you are diabetic, it is important to protect your feet by wearing socks and shoes at all times.

Dry your feet completely and apply lotion to the top and bottom—but not between your toes, which could lead to infection. Never go barefoot. Always wear shoes and socks or slippers, even inside, to avoid injury. Check that there aren't any pebbles or other objects inside your shoes and that the lining is smooth.

Foot care for people with diabetes

All people with diabetes should have their feet checked at least once a year by a doctor or podiatrist. This is important to detect problems early and to prevent ulcers and other complications.

High blood sugar from diabetes can cause damage to the nervous and circulatory systems. Those with diabetic nerve damage can experience decreased sensation in their feet—making their feet prone to injury. Using diabetic socks can help keep feet dry, enhance circulation, and reduce the chance of a foot injury.

Diabetics should always wear shoes in the house, even when they aren't going outside, in order to avoid possible injury to feet from objects on floors that can be stepped on or fallen upon by accident. It helps protect the feet from injuries such as cuts and bruises from sharp objects found around the home.

No flip-flops or open-toed shoes: Flip-flops and open-toed shoes provide minimal protection and support. These types of footwear can increase the risk of injuries and infections. Don't rely solely on fashion: While fashion is important, prioritize function over style when choosing diabetic footwear.

While there are plenty of diabetic-friendly sandals out there, many experts advise wearing shoes that cover the whole foot to prevent injuries. Open-toe shoes can make you prone to injuries and let gravel and stones inside that can rub against your feet. Even minor cuts can be problematic if they get infected.

Why can't diabetics take ibuprofen? ›

Patients of diabetes should be very cautious while consuming over-the-counter pain medications like Advil as these drugs are associated with a high risk of a coronary event. The increased risk for a heart disease in diabetics is further worsened if the patient consumes medications like Ibuprofen.

But that doesn't mean abdominal weight gain should be ignored. It can be an early sign of so-called "diabetic belly," a build-up of visceral fat in your abdomen which may be a symptom of type 2 diabetes and can increase your chances of developing other serious medical conditions.

A thickening or hypertrophy of the nail plate of the toenail (without deformity). It typically includes discoloration or a loss of translucency. Though onychauxis can be a natural part of aging, it is also a common symptom of diabetes.

Typically, a diabetic's toenails might turn yellow due to the breakdown of sugar. Alternatively, toenails that have a yellow tint could be caused by a toenail infection. If you are someone that is living with diabetes, it is suggested that you consider contacting a podiatrist for more information.

Diabetic dermopathy

This condition is also known as shin spots, and it's harmless. The spots look like red or brown round patches or lines in the skin and are common in people with diabetes. They appear on the front of your legs (your shins) and are often confused with age spots. The spots don't hurt, itch, or open up.

Fit is especially important for people with diabetes who have poor circulation and experience swelling in the feet or legs. In that case, compression socks may be recommended. These are snug-fitting socks that promote blood flow. Compression socks should not be so tight that they impair circulation.

In fact, the more you walk—especially at a more intense, faster pace—the lower your diabetes risk. Try to work your way to 10,000 steps per day or at least 30 minutes a day to cut your risk of type 2 diabetes.

“We try to have our medical assistants tell every diabetic patient to take off their shoes before the doctor comes into the room,” he said. “That little thing triggers the reminder that the physician should look at the patient's feet. Without that system in place, screening often falls by the wayside.”

Not everyone with diabetes needs diabetic socks. For those who don't have foot problems, regular socks that are comfortable, non-binding, and fit well are sufficient,2 although it may be advisable to wear them during lengthy travel, as sitting for long periods of time can increase the risk of swelling or blood clots.