Caring for Your Feet When You're a Diabetic

Diabetes can cause serious foot problems. Even ordinary foot problems can become worse and cause serious complications. Dr. Edward Orman at Honeygo Podiatry in Perry Hall and Fallston, MD, provides exceptional diabetic foot care to his patients. Here are seven smart tips for diabetic foot care.

1. Examine your feet.

You may have foot issues, but feel no discomfort in your feet. Examining your feet each day will help you spot problems early before they get worse. Search for problems such as scabs, athlete's foot, calluses, corns, ingrown toenails, blisters, sores, plantar warts, cuts, or red spots. Look for signs of decreased blood flow, such as temperature variation, abnormal hairlessness, and thin or shiny skin. 

2. Wash your feet.

Wash your feet every day, preferably with mild soap and warm water, not hot water. After washing and drying your feet, put talcum powder between your toes. This will keep the skin dry and help to prevent an infection.

3. Keep your skin soft.

Moisturize after washing and drying your feet to keep your skin soft and smooth. Coat your feet with a small amount of petroleum jelly, hand cream, or lotion on the tops and bottoms of your feet. Avoid rubbing creams between the toes.; moisture there can cause fungus growth.

4. Wear socks and shoes.

Wear socks and shoes all day. Do not walk around barefoot indoors or outdoors. It is easy to step on something and hurt your feet. You may not feel any discomfort and may not know that you hurt yourself. Wear footwear that protects your feet and fits well. Choose clean, comfortable socks that fit well. Seamless socks are best. 

5. Trim your toenails.

Cut your toenails straight across and then using a file to give your nails a slight curve. The nails shouldn't dig down on the sides. Keep your nails at a moderate length. Short nails are more prone to becoming ingrown nails. Have your foot doctor cut your toenails if you cannot see or feel your feet. 

6. Be more active.

Physical activity increases blood flow to the feet. Ask your foot doctor for safe ways to be more active each day. Move more by going bike riding, dancing or walking. If you are not very active, start slowly and work up. Wear athletic sneakers that fit well and are made for your activity.

7. See a Perry Hall and Fallston podiatrist. 

Podiatrists are doctors specializing in foot and ankle care, including the treatment of diabetes-related problems. See your podiatrist every few months, even if you don't have any problems with your feet. Ask your podiatrist to check your feet at every visit. Your foot doctor will play a key role in helping you manage diabetes successfully and avoid diabetic foot problems.

Give your feet some TLC. Call Honeygo Podiatry at 410-529-4141 today to schedule an appointment in Perry Hall, MD. Call 410-877-3369 to schedule an appointment in Fallston, MD. Taking good care of your feet can prevent foot problems before they start!