Taking proper care of your feet is especially important for patients with diabetes since the nerve damage accompanying the disease can make your feet lose sense of feeling. This can result in the development of ulcers that can lead to amputation. If you have diabetes, it’s a good idea to visit your foot doctor regularly. You can keep your feet healthy and infection-free with proper care and a comprehensive treatment program developed with your podiatrist’s help. What can you do at home to keep your feet from cuts, scrapes, and pain? Let’s take a closer look.
5 Every Day Diabetic Foot Care Essentials:
- Daily foot checks: Check your feet daily for any cuts, scrapes, blisters, etc. Peripheral nerve damage can make it hard to feel and notice damage or infections without a visual inspection.
- Clean and dry your feet daily: Wash and carefully dry your feet at least once a day to eliminate microbes and prevent infection and foot ulcers.
- Wear properly fitted shoes with the right orthotic inserts: Wear comfortable, supportive shoes with a wide toe box and a deeper heel cup. Orthotic inserts and balance braces will help wounds heal and help prevent falls.
- Raise your feet when lying down: When resting, keeping your feet and lower legs above your heart will improve blood flow, reduce swelling, and help fluids drain.
- Perform aerobic exercise daily or at least a few times per week: Regular exercise improves circulation, lowers blood sugar, and improves immune response.
Here at Georgia Podiatry, we believe in providing optimal foot, ankle, and leg care to our clients. Dr. Evan Brody, Dr. Harshil Patel, Dr. Erin Cupolo, and the rest of the staff at our Kennesaw and Austell locations are ready and eager to help treat your feet. Call us at 678-310-0540 to make an appointment today.