17 Feb 5 Steps To Perform Your Own Diabetic Foot Check
When living with diabetes, there are several things you have to remember to do to take care of yourself. The feet are highly susceptible to diabetes complications, and one of the most effective ways you can prevent them is with self-checks. Since February is National Self-Check Month, our team at Cherrywood Foot Care would like to share some steps you can take to perform your own diabetic foot check. Continue reading to learn more.
Performing Your Own Diabetic Foot Check
Diabetic foot wounds can develop quickly due to a weakened immune system and issues with peripheral neuropathy. In these cases, it’s pretty common for patients to get a tiny cut or blister without even noticing. The pressure from being active can worsen them and potentially degenerate them into wounds, risking severe infections. While there are ways to prevent injuries from forming, inspecting your feet every day allows you to catch anything that crops up and take care of the problem before it worsens. Here are five steps to perform your own diabetic foot check:
- Examine your whole foot – Inspect the tops, soles, and sides of both of your feet. Use a mirror or ask for help. Keep an eye out for cuts, blisters, discoloration, calluses, or any abnormalities.
- Check between the toes – Injuries and infections can appear between the toes, so carefully examine these areas for injuries and skin changes.
- Feel feet for changes – It’s important to feel your feet for changes you may not see easily. Run your hands over your feet to check for bumps, lumps, or cold spots.
- Wash feet daily – Take time to clean your feet to fight infection risks.
- Document changes – If you notice any changes to your feet, track the changes and contact our podiatrists at Cherrywood Foot Care for a closer look.
Contact Us
Making daily foot checks a habit could protect you from serious health complications. During National Self-Check Month, put your feet first. At Cherrywood Foot Care, we understand the importance of proper treatment and maintenance of diabetic feet. Our team of diabetic foot care specialists is dedicated to caring for your feet and equipping patients with the crucial knowledge necessary for addressing this disease. To learn more about diabetic foot checks or schedule an appointment for care, be sure to contact our team today!