Diabetes and Feet: Keeping Them Healthy

Diabetes has been a major health problem for quite some time, so much that it is now approaching epidemic proportions. More Americans are now living with diabetes than ever before. Despite the growing number, many people do not realize the magnitude of this potentially dreadful and deadly disease.

Diabetics are not able to produce or use insulin effectively. Poor circulation and nerve damage are common byproducts of the disease. Here at Foot and Ankle Associates, LLP we want our patients with diabetes to adopt the best foot care practices that help protect your feet and improve overall foot health.

Here are some great tips to help keep your diabetic foot in check.

1.      Daily visual – Examine your feet properly for anything unusual such as corns, warts, blisters and sores. Use a magnifying mirror if necessary, to get a visual of the bottom of your feet.

2.      Daily wash – Wash your feet daily with soap and lukewarm water. Use a towel to dry your feet thoroughly especially between the toes.

3.      Choice of footwear – The need to wear properly fitted shoes with a wide toe box is essential. Throw away any worn-out shoes you may have because they lack protection and cushioning.

4.      Trim toenails carefully – The best way to trim toenails is to cut them straight across to avoid ingrown toenails. If you are experiencing poor circulation or nerve damage in your feet, ask someone else to trim them for you.

5.      Avoid going barefoot – Always have something under your feet to avoid stepping on any sharp objects or developing a fungal infection.

If you are having trouble managing your diabetes, be sure to call your podiatrist for a checkup.

At Foot and Ankle Associates, LLP our team of podiatrists can help care and treat your diabetic foot. For more information, visit our website or call us at any of our 5 convenient office locations located in Newark and Greenville, DE and Kennett Square, West Grove and Garnet Valley, PA.