Proper foot care is crucial for avoiding complications and infections, especially when it comes to diabetic feet.
When you have diabetes, it is important to perform regular checks of your feet, making note of any injuries, cuts, or blisters you may have, especially since you are more susceptible to foot problems.
There are several things you can do to ensure your feet are healthy, including the following:
- Check your feet regularly. Be sure to check your feet regularly for things such as calluses, corns, blisters, cracks, redness, swelling, as well as infected toenails. If you have problems properly checking your feet, be sure to use a mirror or ask someone else to inspect them for you.
- Keep your feet clean. Be sure to wash your feet in warm soapy water, completely drying them, especially between the toes. Also, apply lotion to prevent dry skin, as well as smoothing corns and calluses.
- Keep your toenails trimmed. Be sure to trim your nails so that they are straight across. If you are unable to do this yourself, it is important to ask someone else to help you.
- Wear the appropriate shoes. Not only are shoes that are comfortable, supportive, and fit correctly important, but it is critical that you also avoid walking barefoot, keeping your feet protected.
- Allow the blood to properly flow to your feet. From wiggling your toes several times a day, to moving your ankles up and down, it is important to keep the blood flowing to your feet. Prop your feet up while sitting, avoid sitting for more than an hour, and avoid crossing your legs, standing up and walking around whenever possible.
- Stay healthy. From maintaining your blood sugar, to stopping smoking, to preventing injuries to your feet, staying healthy is key to preventing the complications one can experience from diabetes.
Visit Your Podiatrist
It is critical that your podiatrist examines your feet at least once a year, possibly more often, especially if you suffer from complications such as foot ulcers. It is important to remember that your podiatrist is key to identifying a problem, so attending regular check ups is essential to your foot health.
The Foot and Ankle Specialists of Illinois specialize in a variety of foot and ankle issues, including diabetic foot care. For more information, or to schedule your appointment, contact us today!
