When it’s not well controlled, diabetes can cause serious problems for your feet. A significant number of people with diabetes develop foot ulcers and wounds, a painful condition that can lead to serious medical complications.
Unlike other minor cuts, diabetic foot care requires taking special care of your feet at home and under the supervision of double-board certified podiatrist Thomas Rambacher, DPM, FACFAS, FAPWCA, at Podiatry Hotline Foot & Ankle in Mission Viejo, California. Understand 5 diabetes-friendly ways to care for your feet that prevent and help treat potential complications.
Diabetic foot ulcers are open wounds and sores that are especially common in people who have diabetes, particularly if the diabetes isn’t managed well. Anyone can get a cut on their foot, but diabetic ulcers are unique in that the cuts are slow to heal, if they heal at all, and are at high risk of becoming infected.
You’re at higher risk of ulcers with diabetes because poor circulation makes it hard for blood to get to your feet, causing a longer recovery time with greater risks. It can also take you longer to notice a wound because diabetes can cause a reduced ability to feel nerve sensations like pain in your feet.
Fortunately, you can prevent many diabetes-related foot complications by taking good care of your feet. By making these five steps part of your routine, you’re less likely to get diabetic ulcers and wounds and can catch complications quickly.
Daily foot washing helps prevent infections and fungus. To avoid irritating your foot, use warm rather than hot water and mild soap.
Gently wash your foot everywhere, including between your toes. Avoid soaking your foot for long periods while you wash to prevent potentially cracking your skin from too much dryness.
Once your foot is clean, pat it gently with a towel. To prevent your foot from drying out, apply moisturizer or petroleum jelly everywhere except between your toes.
Diabetes can cause neuropathy, a condition that reduces the sensation in the feet. This makes it more difficult to notice problems with the feet, which can become infected.
You can catch these issues early by checking your entire foot daily for:
Use a mirror, and do the check in good lighting. If you notice any problems, let our team know right away so we can start a treatment plan immediately.
Ingrown toenails can become infected and cause more problems if you have diabetes. If you notice your nails are getting long or jagged, use a nail trimmer to trim nails across in a straight line.
After cutting the nail, use a file to smooth it and remove any rough edges. The best time to trim your nails is after washing your feet when they are soft.
Diabetic-friendly footwear protects your feet while you’re going about your day or exercising. You can wear special shoes made for people with diabetes or choose supportive, comfortable shoes with a wide-toe box.
It’s important to buy shoes and supportive, thick socks that fit correctly to keep your feet from rubbing against your socks or shoes and causing blisters. Always wear socks with your shoes that you change daily, and wear slippers at home to protect your feet.
Regular foot checks with our team are an essential part of your care. We check your foot carefully to ensure it’s healthy, including looking for any cuts or other irregularities and checking for neuropathy.
Working with your entire healthcare team, we help you maintain a healthy lifestyle and routine that keeps your feet as safe as possible. If you have diabetes and would like help managing your feet, contact us today.
