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More about Diabetes

 

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Diabetes is the leading cause of
amputations of the foot and leg.

Ill-fitting shoes and socks have been
identified as precipitating factors leasing to
foot ulceration in people with diabetes.

Samir Chaftari & Co has been treating since 1922 and with success, a great part of feet deformities and feet problems.
Today, and after years of research we propose , a wide range of specially made shoes for diabetic feet, starting from the minor problem up to the amputation, passing through all kinds of foot ulcers.
Our Collection of , is medically designed to meet the patients’ needs. Different styles and colors are proposed for ladies as well as for men, with one thing in mind: maximum protection, supreme prevention and ultimate comfort, along with superior quality and looks.

 

What is neuropathy?
Neuropathy is the gradual loss of nerve function in the feet and legs due to diabetes. The most common and significant change is loss of feeling, or touch sensation. Neuropathy usually comes on slowly. You may not notice it at first because it is the absence or reduction of sensation. It is hard to be aware of something you cannot feel! A physical exam by your doctor can help in making the diagnosis.

If neuropathy causes loss of feeling, why do my feet sometimes hurt or tingle?
Neuropathy can cause the nerves to "go haywire," or transmit impulses that you experience as numbness, tingling, shooting pains, burning sensations, pins and needles, electric shock sensations or any combination of the above.

Do all diabetics get neuropathy?
The likelihood of getting neuropathy increases with age. The longer you have diabetes, the increased chance you have of developing neuropathy.

What can happen to my feet if I have neuropathy?
You can injure your feet without knowing it. For example, a person with neuropathy may let a cut or sore of the foot get out of hand simply because it does not feel painful, and they do not realize it is there. If you wear a pair of poorly fitting shoes, blisters or open sores (ulcers) can form in less than an hour. At first these can cause small problems, which can snowball into more serious ones. The most dangerous thing about neuropathy is the absence of feeling, because this allows the injury to go unrecognized.

How does diabetes affect circulation?
Diabetes can contribute to narrowing of the arteries, and decreased circulation in the upper and lower parts of the leg. However, as discussed above, neuropathy, not circulation, is the main cause of most diabetic foot problems.

How do I prevent foot problems?
Good care requires daily vigilance. Close visual inspection must substitute for the feeling you have lost in your feet. Look for reddened skin, sores, blisters, inflamed nails, bony prominences, and changes in the shape of your foot. You can even place a mirror against a wall near a chair in the bedroom or bath to inspect your feet. If you have poor vision, you may find a magnifying glass helpful. Most practically, have a friend or family member inspect your feet regularly.

What daily care should I do?
Use gentle cleaning routines. Wash your feet in lukewarm water, never hot. Because you cannot rely on your feet to warn you that the water is too hot, test the water temperature with your elbow. Wash with a soft cloth and mild soap. Dry thoroughly but gently between the toes. Use a moisturizing lotion for dry skin, but do not put it between the toes. Keep dry skin soft and pliable.

What kind of socks should I use?
Cotton or wool socks provide the best padding. Avoid synthetic materials. Avoid holes, wrinkles and lumpy stitching. Do not use Socks or stockings with garters or elastic tops that can cut off your circulation.

What kind of footwear should I choose?
Choosing good footwear that allows plenty of room can help prevent foot injuries. Shoes should have cushioned soles with uppers made of soft, breathable materials such as leather, not plastic. Patients with neuropathy should use specially custom-molded insoles to help cushion the foot. These are shaped to the foot.

 

 

 

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Copyright © 2003 CHAFTARI, Samir Chaftari & Co.ltd
Last modified: April 26, 2003