While diabetics know the importance of frequent blood sugar monitoring, the finger used for lancing can significantly impact the testing experience. Dr. Dharmesh Shah, founder of a leading holistic health center, notes the sides of the middle, ring and little fingers are generally the best options.
These fingers located farther from the thumb contain more blood vessels close to the skin's surface. This makes it easier to obtain an adequate blood sample with less pressure needed. They are also less sensitive than the thumb and index fingers, resulting in reduced pain levels.
Dr. Shah advises always washing and drying hands thoroughly before testing. Microbes on the skin can skew results. Pricking the sides of alternate fingertips and rotating fingers helps prevent soreness and callus buildup from frequent lancing.
It is crucial to use the correct lancing device depth setting tailored to each individual. Proper adjustment protects against unnecessary pain while helping draw out an optimal blood volume. Recording glucose readings along with associated meal times and medications also aids in pattern recognition and treatment management.
By following these expert-backed finger picking techniques, diabetics can achieve more comfortable blood glucose self-monitoring for accurate and consistent data to discuss with their healthcare provider. Adhering to such best practices makes proactive diabetes management a less daunting daily task.
