Diabetes impacts nearly every facet of your health — even those that are a bit less obvious, like your feet. That’s because healthy feet rely heavily on healthy nerves, and when diabetes sets in, your nerves are at risk.
The high levels of sugar in your blood can injure the nerve endings in your extremities, including your feet. Without proper management, you can suffer from chronic pain, slow wound healing, and, in the worst scenarios, severe infections that cause tissue death.
The name of the diabetic foot care game is keeping your feet dry, clean, and protected. Here, our podiatry expert, Dr. Kelly Geoghan, shares a few practical strategies to help you support your feet when you have diabetes.
A good sudsy scrub may have worked for your feet in the past, but now it’s time to re-evaluate your foot care regimen. We recommend that you:
It’s also important that you take care when trimming your nails. Do your best to cut your nails straight across and file down the sharp edges.
We encourage you to start checking in with your feet every day. Look carefully for any signs of cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or potential nail problems. It may be helpful to use a magnifying glass or handheld mirror.
If you notice anything, resist the temptation to perform “bathroom surgery,” and call Dr. Geoghan immediately.
Daily moisturizing works to prevent drying, cracking, and itching — all of which can turn into more serious problems down the road. However, avoid moisturizing between your toes, as the added moisture could promote fungal infections.
This tip isn’t just a good idea where your feet are concerned. Managing your diabetes, regulating your blood sugar levels, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are habits that keep your feet safe and support your overall health.
Before your diabetes diagnosis, you may have selected your footwear based on style, brand, or price — but not anymore. Now more than ever, what you put on your feet matters.
We recommend that you opt for comfortable, properly fitting, and supportive shoes. There are also socks designed specifically for diabetics; they have extra cushioning and can stay drier longer.
If your feet get sweaty easily, consider spraying an antiperspirant on the soles of your feet before sliding on your shoes.
Finally, you should always wear something protective on your feet. Going barefoot leaves you susceptible to cuts and scrapes that you may not notice until it’s too late.
Dr. Geoghan should be an active and key member of your diabetic care team. She has the expertise required to quickly address the effects of diabetic nerve damage. Depending on your needs, she may recommend minimally invasive treatments to address pain, numbness, slow healing, and other foot issues.
If you’d like more information about how to take control of your diabetic foot care routine, don’t hesitate to request an appointment at our Lutherville, Maryland, office today.
