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Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetic Foot Care
With a diabetic foot, a wound as small as a blister from wearing a shoe that's too tight can cause a lot of damage. Diabetes decreases blood flow, so injuries are slow to heal. When your wound is not healing, it's at risk for infection. As a diabetic, your infections spread quickly.
Check Your Feet Daily
Look carefully at the tops and bottoms of your feet. Have someone else do it if you can't see them or use a mirror.
• Look for puncture wounds, bruises, pressure areas, redness, warmth, blisters, ulcers, scratches, cuts and nail problems.
• Check for dry, cracked skin.
• Watch for ingrown toenails, corns, and calluses.
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You should have a complete foot exam at least annually, more often if you have foot problems or experience pain. Remember to take off your socks and shoes while you wait for your physical examination.
Call us if you have cuts or breaks in the skin, or have an ingrown nail. Also, tell your health care provider if your foot changes color, shape, or just feels different (becomes less sensitive or hurts for example).
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If you have corns or calluses, we can trim them for you. Neville Foot & Ankle Centers can also trim your toenails if you cannot do so safely.
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Because people with diabetes are more prone to foot problems, a foot care specialist may be on your health care team.
Diabetic Wounds
(Preview Diabetic Wound: Sensitive Viewership Advisory)
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For many, diabetic wounds go untreated because they are often UNNOTICED! Neuropathy limits sensitivity in the foot which means open wounds can fester and become infected. Because of the lack of blood flow, these wounds do not often heal on their own and if left untreated may require amputation.
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We believe in treating these wounds early and aggressively to save the limb! Neville Foot & Ankle Centers is a leading Diabetic Wound Care provider and have helped hundreds of patients successfully overcome wound issues.
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American Diabetes Association
The AMA has a checklist to help you prevent foot issues with diabetes.
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Take care of your diabetes. Work with your health care team to keep your blood glucose in your target range.
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Check your feet every day. Look at your bare feet for red spots, cuts, swelling, and blisters. If you cannot see the bottoms of your feet, use a mirror or ask someone for help.
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Be more active. Plan your physical activity program with your health team.
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Ask your doctor about Medicare coverage for special shoes.
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Wash your feet every day. Dry them carefully, especially between the toes.
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Keep your skin soft and smooth. Rub a thin coat of skin lotion over the tops and bottoms of your feet, but not between your toes. Read more about skin care.
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If you can see and reach your toenails, trim them when needed. Trim your toenails straight across and file the edges with an emery board or nail file.
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Wear shoes and socks at all times. Never walk barefoot. Wear comfortable shoes that fit well and protect your feet. Check inside your shoes before wearing them. Make sure the lining is smooth and there are no objects inside.
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Protect your feet from hot and cold. Wear shoes at the beach or on hot pavement. Don't put your feet into hot water. Test water before putting your feet in it just as you would before bathing a baby. Never use hot water bottles, heating pads, or electric blankets. You can burn your feet without realizing it.
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Keep the blood flowing to your feet. Put your feet up when sitting. Wiggle your toes and move your ankles up and down for 5 minutes, two (2) or three (3) times a day. Don't cross your legs for long periods of time. Don't smoke.
