Why is Diabetic Foot Care Important?

Diabetic Foot Care Tips

Over 37 million Americans struggle with diabetes. If the body is unable to produce enough insulin or use it properly, too much glucose will stay in the bloodstream. This can cause a number of health problems including diabetic neuropathy, which damages nerves. Without proper care, people with diabetes lose the ability to feel heat, cold, or pain in their feet. Another issue that is caused by diabetes is peripheral vascular disease, which affects blood flow. This can lead to problems with healing infections, which increases the risk of developing ulcers and gangrene. Diabetic foot care is crucial to preventing these types of complications. Check out the following section to learn how to reduce your risk of developing foot problems.

Diabetes Management

First and foremost, check your blood sugar levels regularly and take your medication as prescribed. If you notice any issues, schedule a check-up with your doctor to ensure your glucose levels are being properly regulated.

Daily Diabetic Foot Care

While seeing a podiatrist is important, diabetic foot care starts at home. Since diabetes can cause nerve damage, it’s important to wash your feet every day. After that, dry them thoroughly and apply lotion, but not between the toes, as that could cause fungal issues. Once your feet are clean, examine them for any new wounds or sores. Proper diabetic foot care at the first sign of an issue can prevent an infection from spreading. Diabetes also affects your blood flow, so you should elevate your feet whenever you're sitting or lying down.

Weekly Diabetic Foot Care

Every week, check over your toenails for anything that might look different including changes in color or texture. Clip your toenails straight to prevent them from becoming ingrown.

Proper Footwear

Shoes are essential for protecting your feet and toenails. Choose footwear that’s comfortable and well-fitted to prevent the risk of developing hammertoes, bunions, ingrown toenails, plantar fasciitis, and many other podiatry problems.

Podiatry Check-Ups

Scheduling routine check-ups with your podiatrist is key to preventing any type of foot issues from worsening. They will be able to assess any concerns and quickly determine an effective treatment option.