November marks National Diabetes Education Week, a crucial time to spread awareness about managing diabetes effectively—and that includes taking special care of your feet. At Cornerstone Foot & Ankle, we’re committed to helping our patients with diabetes avoid complications that can impact their quality of life.
Diabetes affects many parts of the body, but feet are particularly vulnerable due to issues like reduced blood flow and nerve damage. Even minor cuts or blisters can turn into serious complications if not managed properly.
"Proper foot care is essential for individuals with diabetes," says Dr. Robert Warkala. "By taking proactive steps, patients can prevent many common foot-related complications associated with the condition."
Let’s look at essential foot care tips every diabetic should know to keep their feet healthy and avoid unnecessary complications.
1. Inspect Your Feet Daily
Diabetes can reduce feeling in your feet, making it hard to notice cuts, blisters, or sores. Take a few minutes each day to inspect your feet. Use a mirror if you need help seeing the soles or consider asking a loved one. Check for red spots, blisters, swelling, or any sign of infection.
"Daily foot inspections allow patients to catch potential issues early," advises Dr. Warkala. "Early detection is key to preventing more serious problems."
2. Maintain Proper Hygiene
Wash your feet daily with lukewarm water (never hot!) and mild soap. Be gentle and avoid scrubbing too hard, especially if your skin is dry. Dry your feet thoroughly, paying special attention to the areas between your toes to avoid fungal infections. Follow up with Factor X organic skin moisturizer, but avoid applying it between the toes, as moisture can foster bacteria growth in these areas.
3. Wear Proper Footwear
Shoes should offer adequate support, fit well, and allow your feet to breathe. Ill-fitting shoes can create blisters or sores that go unnoticed. Look for shoes with extra depth or orthotics specifically designed for diabetics. If you’re unsure about the right footwear, our team at Cornerstone Foot & Ankle can guide you to the best options for your foot health.
4. Trim Your Nails Carefully
Toenail trimming might seem straightforward, but improper cuts can lead to ingrown toenails, which can cause infection. Cut straight across and avoid rounding the corners. If you find nail care challenging, consider professional assistance.
"Improper nail trimming is a common issue," says Dr. Warkala. "When in doubt, seek professional help to avoid complications."
5. Avoid Going Barefoot
Even minor injuries can escalate if unnoticed. By always wearing shoes, you reduce the risk of cuts, bruises, and other injuries. Whether you’re at home or outside, keeping your feet protected is a good habit.
6. Manage Blood Sugar Levels
High blood sugar levels impact circulation and nerve health, both of which are vital to foot health. Keeping your blood sugar in the target range helps prevent further damage to the feet. Work with your healthcare team to monitor and maintain your levels.
"Controlling blood sugar is not just about overall health; it's directly linked to foot health as well," explains Dr. Warkala.
7. Schedule Regular Podiatry Appointments
Seeing a podiatrist regularly is essential for anyone with diabetes. Our team at Cornerstone Foot & Ankle is trained to detect potential issues early and provide treatments to prevent them from escalating. Regular check-ups can help us identify changes in foot health before they become serious.
"Regular podiatry visits are a proactive step in maintaining foot health," states Dr. Warkala. "We can catch and address issues before they become serious."
Managing diabetes involves comprehensive care, and that includes being proactive about foot health. With the right habits and regular professional care, diabetics can reduce their risk of complications and maintain a healthier lifestyle. At Cornerstone Foot & Ankle, we’re here to support our diabetic patients every step of the way. Reach out to us to schedule an appointment or ask questions about diabetic foot care—let’s work together for healthier feet!
Cornerstone Foot & Ankle is a full service foot and ankle specialty office with locations in Sewell, Cherry Hill, Marlton, Mt. Holly, Glassboro and Pennsville, serving the South Jersey region. We offer a full suite of services including surgery, fracture care, fungal nail care, diabetic foot care, pediatric podiatry, custom braces and orthotics, wound care, limb salvage, and treatments for arch pain, heel pain, and sports injuries; just to name a few. If it hurts below your knee, we can help you! CALL NOW or request your appointment online TODAY!