Foot Care Tips for Diabetics
Diabetes is one of those diseases that severely affects how we live our everyday lives. It places limits on what we can eat, our activities and exposes us to different medical conditions. Diabetes can be controlled by modifying our lifestyle. This includes monitoring your diet, medications and meticulous foot care.
The feet will always be a major concern for diabetics. An essential part of foot care involves preventing wounds. Since diabetics often experience a loss of sensation to their feet and slower healing times, wounds should be treated immediately to prevent infection. If an infection remains unchecked, this can lead to serious complications including gangrene and amputation.
Foot Care Tips for Diabetics:
· Make it a habit to check your feet daily for wounds, cracks, blisters, redness, splinters and calluses.
· Be wary of foot problems or redness that do not heal within a week. Consult a podiatrist immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.
· Wash your feet in lukewarm water with mild soap daily, and dry them well.
· Trim your toenails properly and ensure that they are of the right length, not too long nor too short. It should be trimmed straight across and the edges should be smoothened by a nail file.
· Wear soft and dry socks. Make sure that shoes or sandals are always a good fit.
· Never cross your legs on your knees
· Move your toes and ankles every few minutes to ensure good circulation.
· It is best if you elevate your feet while you are sitting.
· Do not go barefoot even at home to prevent cuts or scratches.
· Shop for shoes during the afternoon or evening to ensure perfect shoe fitment. Your feet are at their maximum size during this time of the day.
Any complications or foot injuries can be risky especially for people with diabetes. Consult a podiatrist for symptoms of any foot injury or any signs of infection.
Contact James C. Ricketti, DPM and let us address all your foot and ankle needs. Our board-certified podiatrist will tailor treatments based on your individual needs and with our state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options, we’ll help you get back on your feet in no time! Call our office today at 609-587-1674 to make an appointment at our conveniently located Hamilton, NJ office.