The Importance of Proper Diabetic Foot Care
You take care of your diabetes by watching your diet and tracking your blood sugar levels, but also crucial to your health and safety is protecting your diabetic feet. Especially susceptible to cuts and infections, proper care of your feet is of the upmost importance.
Dr. Esther Barnes of Step Ahead Foot and Ankle Clinic in Kalispell, MT, can help you protect and treat your diabetic feet. Here is what you should know about diabetic foot care.
How does diabetes affect my feet?
Diabetes causes a reduction in blood flow to your feet, as well as nerve damage that impairs your ability to feel pain or discomfort. Because of the lack of sensation, you may experience a cut or irritation that goes unnoticed, leading to sores or wounds. The prolonged lack of treatment, along with diminished blood flow, increases the chance these cuts will become infected and slow to heal.
The combination of poor circulation and lingering sores could lead to gangrene, the death of tissue, requiring amputation of the foot, toe or part of the leg. Visit your podiatrist at our Kalispell, MT office immediately if you have open, pussing, or prolonged wounds on your feet.
How do I know if my diabetic feet are unhealthy?
Signs that your feet are not being properly cared for include numbness, recurring sores or blisters, infected corns, yellowing and thickening toenails or a tingling and burning sensation. Make sure to report any symptoms you are experiencing with your podiatrist auto our Kalispell, MT office.
How do I care for my diabetic feet?
Diligent, thorough foot care is essential for keeping your feet healthy. Make sure to see your podiatrist at our Kalispell, MT office for regular examinations in addition to practicing the following:
- Clean your feet in lukewarm water and dry them thoroughly
- Regularly examine your feet for cuts, inflammation, swelling, discharge or signs of irritation
- Keep your feet moisturized, but ensure the spaces between your toes are dry to prevent the growth of fungus
- Trim your toenails straight across, leaving a portion of the white tip visible
- Make sure to wear clean, dry socks and shoes at all times, both indoors and outdoors
- Only wear shoes that fit well, and check the interior for any foreign objects before putting them on.
At Step Ahead Foot and Ankle Clinic in Kalispell, MT, your foot health is our priority. Schedule an appointment with your podiatrist today by calling (406) 755-2818.