Why is diabetic foot care important?
Diabetes can pose many dangers to your feet. It causes poor circulation, which means wounds heal slowly or not at all. The longer a wound stays open and unnoticed, the greater the risk for infection.
About half of people with diabetes have some degree of nerve damage, called diabetic neuropathy, which causes a loss of sensation. When nerve damage affects your feet and legs, you might not feel the pain of a wound or injury.
As a result, something as minor as a blister or sore can lead to a nonhealing wound or serious infection that puts you at risk for amputation.
What does diabetic foot care entail?
To avoid foot problems that can potentially result in losing a toe, foot, or leg, it’s imperative to follow these guidelines:
- Inspect your feet every day and call Dr. Biss if you notice anything unusual
- Bathe your feet in lukewarm, not hot, water
- Gently clean your feet with a soft washcloth or sponge
- Moisturize your feet, but not between the toes, as that can lead to a fungal infection
- Trim nails straight across and not too short to avoid ingrown toenails
- Never treat corns or calluses yourself
- Wear clean, dry socks, preferably ones specifically for people with diabetes
- Wear socks to bed if your feet get cold
- Check the insides of your shoes for pebbles and foreign objects before wearing
- Keep your feet warm and dry
- Never walk barefoot
In addition to foot care, it’s essential to manage diabetes by keeping your blood sugar levels under control. You should also avoid smoking because that further restricts blood flow to your feet.
When should I see a doctor for diabetic foot care?
People with diabetes should see Dr. Biss at Concord Podiatry for routine foot exams. You should call him right away if you experience any of the following:
- Pain or cramping in your legs
- Tingling, burning, or pain in your feet
- Loss of sensation in your feet
- Changes in foot color, shape, or appearance
- Dry, cracked skin on the feet
- Thickened, yellow toenails
- Fungal infections
- Ingrown toenails
- Blisters, sores, or ulcers
- Corns or calluses
Dr. Biss carefully examines your feet and initiates prompt treatment in order to resolve your foot problems before they turn into something serious.
If you or a loved one needs diabetic foot care, call Concord Podiatry, or book an appointment online today.
