Diabetic Foot Care Tips
Obviously, taking care of your diabetes is the number one way to stay safe, healthy and comfortable. But there are also steps you can take that are designed to aid in diabetic foot care. Dr. Christina Teimouri and staff at the Beaver Valley Foot Clinic are here to provide you with gentle, fast relief from all kinds of foot pain. To start, below are a few tips to keep in mind for diabetic foot care:
-Regularly Wash, Smooth & Rub
Wash your feet in warm water, and dry every single day. Keep feet smooth by gently scrubbing corns and calluses—do not ever attempt to remove these issues on your own! Finally, sooth your feet with a rub of lotion that’s specifically for diabetic feet. Also, your toenails are able to tell you about your body’s overall health; listen to them when you notice something unfamiliar while washing. Take notice to swelling, blisters, red splits, cuts, etc. …
-Diabetic Foot Care Includes Toe Health Too
Your toenails are like small shields that protect your toes and reveal the health of your entire body. Since diabetics often suffer from a decrease in sensation on their fingertips and toes, keeping nails in a good condition is critical. Also remember to keep the blood flow circulating fully to your toes. Instead of crossing your legs when sitting, for instance, put your feet up and wiggle your toes often.
-Both Protection & Inspection Are Necessary
Check your feet daily if you are a diabetic. Yes, it’s a everyday necessity. Lower leg and foot issues can appear out of no where, making it critical to pay attention and attend to anything out of the ordinary. One way to minimize these painful issues is to protect your feet from harmful surfaces and extreme temperatures, such as hot pavement and sand. Wear proper shoes, socks and other appropriate footwear.
Do Not Test Water Temperature With Your Feet
Neuropathy makes diabetic patients unable to feel, which means even if you develop an injury in your feet you won’t know about it!
We often use our feet to check whether the water is hot Or not, but diabetic patients should avoid this.
You may scald your feet even without knowing and this damage can lead to infections and non-healing injuries.
Furthermore, neuropathy weakens your skin which means hot water can easily melt your skin away.
So make sure to never check anything with your feet, instead use your hands or ask someone else to check for you.
How can someone with diabetes protect their feet from extreme temperatures?
Someone with diabetes can protect their feet from extreme temperatures by following these points:
- Avoid barefoot walking: Always wear shoes or slippers to protect your feet from hot surfaces, especially in the summer.
- Choose appropriate footwear: Wear closed-toe shoes in cold weather to keep your feet warm and protect them from frostbite.
- Check shoe fit: Ensure your shoes are not too tight or too loose, as this can cause discomfort and lead to foot problems.
- Use sunscreen: Apply sunscreen to your feet when they are exposed to the sun to prevent sunburn.
- Check water temperature: Test the water temperature with your elbow before bathing or soaking your feet to avoid burns.
- Moisturize: Keep your feet well moisturized, especially in dry or cold weather, to prevent cracks and dry skin.
- Avoid direct heat: Do not use heating pads, hot water bottles, or electric blankets directly on your feet, as this can cause burns.
What should someone with diabetes do if they experience a burning sensation in their feet?
If someone with diabetes experiences a burning sensation in their feet, they should take the following steps:
- Check for injuries: Inspect the feet for any signs of injury, such as cuts, blisters, or sores.
- Check footwear: Ensure that the shoes are not too tight or rubbing against the feet, causing irritation.
- Elevate the feet: Rest with the feet elevated to reduce pressure and improve circulation.
- Check blood sugar levels: Monitor blood sugar levels to ensure they are within the target range.
- Apply cool compress: Use a cool, damp cloth or an ice pack wrapped in a towel to soothe the burning sensation.
- Avoid heat: Avoid hot surfaces or direct heat on the feet, such as heating pads or hot water bottles.
The Beaver Valley Foot Clinic is Here for You!
Dr. Christina Teimouri will tend to all of your foot and lower leg needs so that you can achieve ultimate health and balanced diabetic foot care. For more information on foot care services, contact the Beaver Valley Foot Clinic today by calling (878)-313-3338 now, or stop into one of the convenient locations around Hopewell today. Contact the Hopewell’s leading podiatrist at the Beaver Valley Foot Clinic now, and schedule your first appointment for diabetic foot care services. Get gentle, fast relief from all kinds of foot pain, today!