Products for Diabetic Foot Pain
Diabetic neuropathy is a nerve condition that causes numbness and tingling throughout the body. Over time, many diabetics experience foot pain related to neuropathy, and, as pain increases walking may become difficult. Diabetics should know about the products available for foot pain to determine if one may work for their particular situation.
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Medication
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Over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help with diabetic foot pain. The relief will be short-term and will not treat the condition. Some diabetics should not use certain over-the-counter medications, and they should discuss other treatment options with a physician. Doctors can prescribe oral medications that may help with neuropathy and related pain.
Creams and Ointments
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Prescriptions creams and ointments are available for diabetics if the physician determines this is the best course of treatment. When rubbed into the skin of the feet, some diabetics find these creams and ointments ease painful nerve endings. Some stores or websites may sell creams that claim to help diabetic foot pain, though some may not be studied or approved treatments.
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Shoes
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Shoes designed for diabetics may be of help with diabetic foot pain. These shoes should be made of material that can breathe. The inside of the shoes are seamless, and the toes of the shoe will have plenty of room. This helps prevent the shoe from rubbing on sensitive areas of the feet. Shoes or shoe inserts can be customized for a diabetic's feet, and this will also help ease painful feet.
Night Relief
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If diabetics have extensive neuropathy damage, blankets and sheets touching the feet may be horribly painful. To ease discomfort, some diabetics use a bed cradle, a device that lifts bedding away from the feet so that feet are covered without direct contact. Bed cradles are sold at home medical supply stores and many pharmacies.
Warning
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Some products sold online or in store claim to relieve diabetic foot pain. Most of these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and so these claims have not been verified. Before purchasing the product, particularly costly items, speak with a physician to determine if he recommends the product.
Prevention
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In order to lower the risks of having foot pain related to diabetic neuropathy, diabetics should keep blood sugars under control. Checking blood sugar levels periodically throughout the day will help accomplish this, as well as taking all medications prescribed by the physician. Eating well and staying active may also help prevent foot pain.
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References
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