"I regretted walking barefoot so much"... What are the worst, most dangerous habits? By Kim Yong (ecok@kormedi.com)

"Barefoot walking" is trending these days. It's believed that walking barefoot on the ground is beneficial to one's health. In addition to designated barefoot walking paths, people also walk barefoot on regular hiking trails. However, some people should be cautious. Those with diabetes, pre-diabetes, or poorly controlled blood sugar levels are at risk. This can lead to foot infections and, in severe cases, even amputations. Let's explore why people with diabetes should avoid barefoot walking, based on data from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency.

 

I tried exercising barefoot , Rather, it is self-inviting ... why ?

Long-term diabetes or poor blood sugar control increases the risk of developing complications, a leading cause of death. In Korea, 14.8% of people aged 30 and older (as of 2022) are reported to have diabetes. The number is estimated to be much higher if those in the early stages or those who don't undergo blood sugar testing are included. The "diabetes epidemic" is by no means an exaggeration. The problem lies in engaging in "dangerous exercise" without knowing one's blood sugar level.

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, walking barefoot can be dangerous for those with peripheral neuropathy, a complication of diabetes that causes decreased sensation in the toes. Wounds on the feet can go unnoticed, potentially leading to ulcers. Furthermore, bacteria in the soil can infect wounds, potentially worsening the condition. Barefoot exercise, a health-conscious choice, can actually have devastating consequences, potentially leading to amputation.

 

If you have diabetes, you are more likely to get ulcers on your feet. ... Symptoms of poor peripheral blood vessels include ?

 

Diabetes increases the risk of developing foot problems. Foot ulcers can easily develop, and severe cases can even lead to amputation. Diabetic neuropathy and peripheral artery disease are the starting points of foot problems. If you experience a slow walking pace, fatigue, limping, or pain when walking, you may have peripheral vascular disease. It's recommended to get tested. If you develop a wound or ulcer on your feet, you should see a doctor immediately. For type 1 diabetes, screening for peripheral neuropathy and autonomic neuropathy should be done within five years of diagnosis, and for type 2 diabetes, screening should be done immediately. Thereafter, screening should be done annually.

 

All diabetic patients , You should check your feet every year for any problems. ... Blood sugar , Blood pressure management is important

 

Diabetes is incurable. Once diagnosed, it requires lifelong management. Prevention is paramount, and for those in the pre-diabetic stage or with high blood sugar levels, control is crucial. All diabetic patients should have their foot checked annually for diabetic foot disease and risk factors. Regular foot care education is also essential. Blood sugar and blood pressure should be managed to prevent complications and slow their progression. Even if symptoms are absent, regular checkups are essential for early detection of complications. If chronic complications of diabetes develop, ongoing self-management is essential, along with lifestyle modifications such as dietary adjustments and exercise, regular checkups, and medication.

Exercise is ' safety ' This is the most important ... Exercise for health can actually be toxic

 

Dietary control and exercise are crucial for preventing and managing diabetes. Overeating and a lack of exercise increase the risk of obesity and diabetes. It's recommended to exercise at least 30 minutes a day, five times a week. The problem is that people who already have diabetes are unaware they're walking barefoot. Too many people don't even realize they have diabetes. Without treatment and management, asymptomatic complications can develop.

 

Walking barefoot on regular hiking trails, especially where small shards of glass or fine rock fragments may be present, is extremely dangerous. Soil-borne bacteria can invade through wounds on the feet, leading to ulcers and inflammation. This can lead to uncontrollable aftereffects. Safety is paramount when it comes to exercise. Exercise for health should not be toxic.

 

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According to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, diabetes complications include

If you have decreased sensation in your toes due to peripheral neuropathy,

Walking barefoot can be dangerous.

Even if you get a wound on your foot, you may not feel pain and may be left untreated.