Diabetes and Your Feet
DIABETES AND YOUR FEET
WHY IS FOOT HEALTH IMPORTANT FOR DIABETIC PATIENTS?
When you think about Diabetes and managing your condition, monitoring blood sugar levels and nutrition are likely to come to mind. But diabetes can be especially dangerous to your feet! Diabetes can cause a loss of feeling caused from poor circulation in the feet, making it harder to heal an injury or resist infection. Blisters, pressure sores, and even minor injuries can pose a significant threat in diabetic patients.
Dr. Grindstaff and our healthcare team provide specialized foot care for diabetic patients, including regular foot exams to ensure you stay on top of your foot health.
DIABETIC FOOT CARE GUIDELINES
- Perform daily foot inspections
- Wash feet in lukewarm water
- Be gentle on your feet
- Cut toenails carefully
- Never treat corns or calluses yourself
- Keep your feet warm at night
- Never walk barefoot
- Take care of your diabetes
- Keep your feet moisturized (avoid between your toes to avoid any fungal infections)
- Always wear clean, dry socks and shoes
- Avoid tight elastic sock bands or overly thick socks
- Don't smoke
- Schedule regular foot exams
