If You Have Diabetes, Follow These Foot Care Tips
Diabetes can have a big impact on your life, and that includes your foot health! While medication and seeing a team of healthcare professionals is essential, our podiatrists at Prime Foot and Ankle Specialists want you to know that it is also imperative to incorporate these foot care tips to prevent serious consequences that you are at higher risk of developing.
Tip #1: Look over your feet everyday
One of the most common symptoms that result from diabetes is losing sensation in your extremities, so it becomes harder to feel when you become injured. Making daily foot checks part of your routine can help catch any wounds or other problems early.
Tip #2: Practice good foot hygiene
Keep your feet clean through daily washing and thorough drying to keep any bacteria and fungus at bay. Wash with warm soapy water and dry carefully, including in between the toes. Be sure to keep your toenails trimmed too by cutting them in a straight line across to prevent nail issues like ingrown toenails.
Tip #3: Protect your feet
Diabetes can lead to diminished sensation in your feet and slow healing, which can make any small cuts, scrapes or other issues that much more important to prevent. Protect your feet by wearing socks and comfortable shoes, especially when outside.
Tip #4: Invest in customized footwear
Any discomfort in your footwear can lead to blisters, calluses, or foot deformities like bunions or hammertoes, so it’s important to invest in supportive footwear that not only fits properly but also gives you the support you need. Creating custom orthotics or investing in diabetic shoes are ways to enhance your foot function and comfort.
Tip #5: See a podiatrist regularly
As you can tell, taking care of your feet is just one aspect of your diabetic care. Scheduling regular visits with a foot care specialist can ensure that your foot health is in tip top shape and that any concerns or problems are treated quickly and effectively. These regular visits play a role in preventing serious complications like ulcers, infections, and amputation.
Get help from our foot doctors
Don’t wait until you have a foot or ankle issue to see a podiatrist. At Prime Foot and Ankle Specialists, our foot doctors are highly skilled in diabetic foot care and understand the unique issues and risks that affect those who have diabetes. From wound care to treating neuropathy and creating custom orthotics, our podiatrists have the advanced tools and expertise to give your feet what they need. Contact any of our Southern NJ offices in Florence, Pine Hill, Voorhees, and Woodbury Heights today to set up an appointment!