Going on vacation often means taking part of a number of activities, may they be walking, swimming, hiking, sightseeing, or dancing. Even if you plan on staying in, just travelling to your destination is going to keep you on your feet for a while.
This can be problematic for diabetics, as poor foot health can lead to foot ulcers and even amputations. However, one study found that frequent use of even low-cost strategies can help maintain the health and function of lower limbs in people with diabetes.
Here are some foot care tips you can follow while you’re on the road.
1. Always wear properly fitting socks and shoes.
First off, a little prevention goes a long way. If you want to keep your feet healthy, you have to start by protecting them. Wearing socks and shoes will keep you at lower risk for cuts and scrapes.
Wearing properly fitted socks and shoes takes this a step further and ensures that your feet are appropriately supported and that your weight is evenly distributed along the soles of your feet. Orthopedic shoes are especially recommended.
2. Exercise
Exercise should already be a part of your routine to gain strength and balance, but regular exercise is also essential in maintaining healthy blood circulation.
Even simple exercises like light aerobics just to get your blood pumping can help keep fresh, oxygenated blood flowing to the tips of your toes. This can keep your feet from feeling numb, which in turn will help in maintaining your balance while you’re out and about. It can also reduce the chance and frequency of swelling in your feet and legs.
3. Perform regular foot exams, especially after a long period on your feet.
Even if you plan your vacation down to the last detail, you’re most likely going to be spending a lot of time on your feet, and a lot of time on your feet means they’ll be carrying your weight.
While wearing protective footwear goes a long way in preventing injuries, it’s important to do regular foot exams even if you don’t feel anything wrong with your feet. Make sure to look over them for any wounds or bruises, and massage them to feel out any irregular pain or lack of sensation. That way, you can spot problems before they become unmanageable.
4. Keep your feet dry.
As much as possible, try to keep your feet dry. Your feet will inevitably get wet when you shower or go swimming, but it’s vital that after these activities that you dry them completely.
This especially goes for when you’re hiking. Try not to walk in wet shoes and socks, and pack slippers just in case. Skin that has been wet for long periods is more prone to breakage, meaning it’ll be easier to get cuts and blisters. In addition, wet socks and shoes can be a breeding ground for skin ailments such as athlete’s foot and other rashes.
5. Maintain foot hygiene.
For diabetics, foot hygiene goes beyond making sure you’re soaping between your toes. Aside from washing your feet regularly, keeping your toenails trimmed can help prevent scratches and ingrown nails, and will also maintain the fit of your socks and shoes.
In addition, taking care of callouses if and when they form is important as well. Callouses can shift the balance of your feet, change the fit of your shoes, and even cause unhealthy amounts of pressure on your feet when stepped on.
Better Be Safe
Travelling should be a fun experience, no matter how you decide to spend your time. However, as a diabetic, there are a few precautions you need to follow to make sure your trip is a safe and healthy one. Packing your bags, medications, and your trusted dietary food supplement for diabetes, are not the only preparations that you should do. You have to think of your feet, too.
Keep these tips in mind and you’ll be able to take care of your feet wherever you go.
