These days, "barefoot walking" is becoming popular. The claim is that walking barefoot on soil is beneficial for health. In addition to dedicated barefoot walking paths, some people also walk barefoot on regular hiking trails. However, there are people who should be cautious. Specifically, those with diabetes or in the early stages where blood sugar control is poor. Bacterial infections in the feet are a concern, and in severe cases, there is a risk of amputation. Let's explore the reasons why people with diabetes should avoid barefoot walking, based on data from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency.

 

Doing barefoot exercise actually increases the risk... Why?

If you have been living with diabetes for a long time or if blood sugar control is not well managed, the risk of complications increases. This is one of the major causes of death. In Korea, 14.8% of people aged 30 and over are reported to have diabetes (as of 2022). The number is estimated to be much higher if including those in pre-diabetes stages or who do not undergo blood sugar testing. The term 'diabetes crisis' is by no means an exaggeration. The problem is that people engage in 'dangerous exercise' without knowing their blood sugar levels.

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, walking barefoot can be dangerous for individuals with peripheral neuropathy, a complication of diabetes that causes numbness in the toes. Since they may not feel pain even if they get a wound on their foot, it can be left untreated, increasing the risk of ulceration. Additionally, bacteria in the soil can infect the wound, potentially worsening the condition uncontrollably. What is intended as a healthy barefoot exercise could instead become a serious hazard, possibly leading to the amputation of the foot.

 

If you have diabetes, foot ulcers tend to develop easily... What are the symptoms of peripheral vascular deterioration?

 

Having diabetes increases the risk of foot problems. Foot ulcers are common, and in severe cases, amputation may be necessary. Diabetic neuropathy and peripheral arterial disease are the starting points of foot conditions. If walking speed decreases, legs tire easily, or there is limping or pain while walking, peripheral vascular disease should be suspected. It is advisable to undergo an examination. If a diabetic patient develops cuts or ulcers on their feet, they should go to the hospital immediately. For type 1 diabetes, screening for peripheral neuropathy and autonomic neuropathy should be done within five years of diagnosis; for type 2 diabetes, screening should be done immediately upon diagnosis, followed by annual examinations.

 

All diabetes patients should check annually if they have foot problems... Managing blood sugar and blood pressure is important.

 

Diabetes cannot be cured. Once contracted, it must be managed lifelong. Prevention is the most important, and controlling blood sugar levels is crucial for those in the early stages or with high blood sugar. All diabetic patients should check annually for the presence of diabetic foot disease and risk factors. Additionally, education on foot care is necessary in daily life. To prevent complications and slow progression, blood sugar and blood pressure must be managed. Even without symptoms, regular check-ups are needed to detect complications early. If chronic complications of diabetes develop, lifestyle modifications such as diet control and exercise, regular health screenings, medication, and continuous self-care are essential.

Exercise prioritizes 'safety' above all... Exercise for health can actually be harmful.

 

Diet control and exercise are important for the prevention and management of diabetes. Eating a lot and being reluctant to move increases the risk of obesity and diabetes. It is recommended to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, about five times a week. The problem is when people already have diabetes but are unaware of it and engage in barefoot walking exercises. Many people do not realize they have diabetes. If treatment and management are not undertaken, asymptomatic complications may progress.

 

Walking barefoot on common hiking trails where small glass shards or tiny stones may be present is very dangerous. Bacteria from the soil can invade through foot wounds, leading to ulcers and inflammation. Uncontrollable aftereffects may also occur. Safety is the most important aspect of exercise. Exercise for health should not become harmful.

 

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According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, diabetic complications

In cases of peripheral neuropathy with dulled sensation in the toes,

Walking barefoot can be dangerous.

Even if a wound occurs on the foot, it may be left untreated because pain is not felt.