Roughly 37 million people in the US have diabetes. Of those millions, roughly half struggle with nervous system damage to their feet or hands caused by diabetes. This major complication means that diabetics have to take exceptional care of their feet. High blood sugar levels can cause nerve damage and poor blood flow, making it difficult for the feet to heal properly. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips and strategies for maintaining good foot health for people with diabetes.

Keep your feet warm

Because of the poor circulation, diabetics should aim to keep their feet warm to promote circulation. Washing your feet each day in warm (not hot) water can promote blood flow and alleviate some of the problems. 

Check your feet daily

It’s essential to examine your feet every day, looking for any cuts, blisters, or other abnormalities. Even the smallest cut can put diabetics at risk for infection. Check between your toes as well! If you have trouble seeing your feet, use a mirror or ask a family member for help.

Keep your feet clean and dry

Wash your feet daily with warm water and mild soap. Make sure to dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes. Moisture can lead to fungal infections, so it is essential to keep your feet dry.

Moisturize your feet

Dry skin can lead to cracking and itching, which can increase the risk of infection. Use a moisturizer on your feet daily, but avoid applying it between the toes, as it can lead to fungal infections.

Wear proper shoes and socks

Wearing well-fitting shoes and socks is crucial for people with diabetes. Shoes should be comfortable and have enough room for your toes. Socks should be made of breathable materials and should not be too tight around the ankles. When you’re shopping for new shoes, aim to try on shoes toward the end of your day when you’ve been on your feet a lot. This will give you a better picture of how much your feet swell and reduce the risk of picking a too-small size.

Protect your feet

Walking barefoot may sound great to some, but for diabetics, it can be risky. Avoid walking barefoot, as it can lead to cuts and injuries. Wear protective shoes or sandals in public places, such as pools or locker rooms. (By the way, wearing shoes in locker rooms is also sanitary for everyone!) This also means finding feet-friendly activities that reduce the risk of cuts and scrapes on your feet. The CDC recommends swimming, biking, or running!

Cut your toenails carefully

Trim your toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short. Gently file them. If you have trouble cutting your toenails, you can ask a podiatrist for help.

See a podiatrist regularly

A podiatrist can help you maintain good foot health by examining your feet for any abnormalities, such as cuts or blisters. They can also help you manage any foot problems you may have.

Foot and ankle care is essential for people with diabetes to prevent complications. By taking care of your feet, you are taking care of your overall health. If you’re a diabetic struggling with protecting your feet, give us a call at 214-574-WALK(9255). The team at North Texas Foot & Ankle is ready to help! We can provide a better understanding of your neuropathy as well as find ways to boost circulation to your feet.