DIABETES & YOUR FOOT HEALTH
Diabetes causes many foot problems due to the fact that it can damage your nerves and lessen blood flow to your feet. If you are diagnosed with diabetes, take special care of your feet because poor foot care could lead to an amputation of a foot or a leg. However, if you take good care of your feet, you can prevent the most serious problems.
Here are some tips on how to properly care for your feet. Wash your feet with mild soaps and warm water and pat dry your feet daily. After drying your feet, put lotion on your heels to prevent cracked skin. Daily, check your feet for dry, cracked skin, blisters, cuts, scratches, redness or increased warmth, ingrown toenails or anything out of the usual. When cutting your toenails, cut after washing and trim them straight across, then smooth with a nail file. Do not cut cuticles or cut into the corners of your toes.
Take care while exercising by wearing comfortable shoes and socks. Do not exercise if you have open sores on your feet. Also do not go barefoot or wear high heel shoes!
Buy shoes that properly fit your feet. Are your shoes too tight or too narrow? You could get nerve damage from poorly fitting shoes. Try this test to see if your shoes properly fit. Stand and trace your barefoot on a piece of paper. Put your shoe on and trace your shoe. Compare the two tracings and your shoe should be at least ½ inch longer than your longest toe and as wide as your foot.
Proper shoes for diabetics should include closed toes and heels, a sole with a stiff material and a soft inside.
If you have diabetes, get treatment for any foot problem. Don’t wait to see a podiatrist. At your podiatrist's office, the doctor should look at your feet and will recommend the proper treatment. Call us right away if you notice any problems with your feet.
Should you have any questions, please contact our team here to set up an appointment online, by email at info@riverpodiatry.com or by phone at (845) 735-8440.
River Podiatry, with locations in Pearl River NY, and Midland Park NJ, provides comprehensive, treatment of patients with podiatric issues. The practice specializes in foot surgery and the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers. Expect the best possible care utilizing the most modern techniques. Make an appointment today with Rockland County and Bergen County podiatrist Dr. Han!
