What you need to know about diabetic foot care

Podiatrist near East Meadow

01 Oct What you need to know about diabetic foot care

Posted at 11:05h in Blog, diabetic foot care, foot care by

It is very important as a diabetic to ensure proper foot care. Diabetes can cause nerve damage as well as reduce the blood flow to your feet, making it harder for the body to heal from an injury or an infection. The best way to keep your feet healthy as a diabetic, is through proper protection and prevention.

The first step to keeping your feet healthy is to inspect them every single day. It is also recommended to have your healthcare provider perform an annual foot examination. As a diabetic, it is especially important to check for any cuts, blisters, swelling, redness, or ingrown or infected nails. In the most extreme cases, amputation may be required if a problem on the foot is neglected and not taken care of.

Keeping your feet clean by washing them every single day is one of the best preventative measures for healthy feet. Be sure to wash in lukewarm water and use a soft washcloth or sponge, and make sure to carefully blot or pat your feet dry. Applying a daily moisturizer is also recommended, but make sure to avoid putting any in between the toes as it can encourage fungal growth.

Proper care should be exercised when dealing with the your toenails. If you can see and reach your toenails, make sure to trim them carefully. Ingrown toenails can be painful, and if you are diabetic, can lead to more serious issues. Ask your foot care specialist if you have any questions regarding trimming your toenails.

In the event that you develop callouses or corns on your feet, never try to operate on them yourself. Always consult a foot care specialist as they are trained to give you the appropriate treatment.

It is also very important to never walk barefoot and always wear the right type of shoes and socks. Keep your feet dry and out of the extreme temperatures. Avoid tight elastic socks, as they can cut off blood flow and circulation, and make sure you wear comfortable shoes. Shake out your shoes before wearing them as there may be a foreign object lodged in it that you cannot feel.

Diabetics are more prone to problems with their feet, but these issues do not have to control your life. If you follow the steps above and take care of your diabetes correctly, you should have no issues. The podiatrists at Cherrywood Foot Care are here to answer any of your questions so do not hesitate to give us a call and schedule an appointment!



What you need to know about diabetic foot care

15 Apr Diabetic Foot Care

Posted at 17:04h in by

Diabetics are more prone to various foot problems due to the development of painful nerve damage called peripheral neuropathy. Neuropathy can affect your entire body, but most often the legs and feet are the areas most prone to serious health complications.

The damage to your nerves can cause the loss of feeling in your feet, making it difficult to detect extreme temperatures and pain as easily, or readily, as someone who does not have diabetes. As a result, you could sustain a serious cut or wound and not even notice your foot is injured until an infection begins. Many diabetic foot problems can be prevented in some measure with improved blood sugar control and a strengthened immune system.

If you are among one of the millions of people in the United States with diabetes, it is important to visit your podiatrist for regular foot examinations in order to maintain healthy feet and a strong body.

Examine your Feet Daily

Careful inspection of your feet on a regular basis is one of the easiest, least expensive and most effective measures for preventing foot complications. By examining your feet daily, and after every injury, you are taking a crucial step to preventing serious foot problems. Noticeable changes, such as temperature, skin color, pain, or swelling may be warning signs for poor circulation or loss of sensation that could potentially lead to something more serious.

Annual examinations by your podiatrist are also vital for anyone with diabetes. A podiatrist can provide a more thorough exam and detect any signs of changes, such as broken skin or ulcers that can be detrimental to the health of your feet and body. Your podiatrist can also check for areas of high pressure or loss of blood circulation.

Clean Your Feet

With diabetes, it is important to keep your feet clean. Wash your feet daily with warm water and mild soap. After washing, make sure you dry your feet thoroughly, especially in-between the toes. You may also apply non-irritating moisturizer to prevent cracks and to keep your feet smooth.

Be sure to also avoid ingrown toenails, which can get infected, by keeping them trimmed neatly. If you are unable to cut your toenails safely, ask your podiatrist for professional assistance. And never attempt to cut your own bunions or corns as this can lead to infection, as well. Instead, remember to visit your podiatrist for safe and pain free removal.

Proper diabetic foot care also involves the following:

  • Avoid smoking, as it reduces blood flow to your feet
  • Buy comfortable shoes that are not too tight or too loose
  • Wear clean, dry socks and change them everyday
  • Never walk barefoot in order to protect your feet from harmful objects

Diabetes is serious, especially when your feet are involved. Early detection and simple care are just a few things that can be done to control and prevent complications as they arise.

Your podiatrist plays a critical role in the prevention and management of complications of the foot in diabetics. Talk to your podiatrist today to see what you can do now to keep your feet safe, strong, and healthy.



Cherrywood Foot Care