Everyday Diabetic Foot Care Tips to Protect Your Feet for the Long Haul

If you have diabetes, taking care of your feet is a lifelong necessity. 

Diabetic foot problems are a leading cause of hospitalization and amputation. In fact, 25% of people with diabetes are more likely to develop foot ulcers, and 20% of this population may require an amputation procedure. That’s why diabetic foot care is crucial.

Fortunately, you can take some simple measures to keep your feet healthy and avoid complications. We’ll get there in a bit.

First, let’s understand the importance of diabetic foot care.

Why is Foot Care Important with Diabetes?

There are a few reasons why foot care is especially important for people with diabetes.

First, diabetes can cause damage to the nerves in your feet (neuropathy), which can lead to pain, tingling, or numbness. This can make walking or standing difficult and make you more vulnerable to injuries. Diabetic neuropathy could also worsen minor foot injuries, which may develop into serious infections.

Second, diabetes can also cause poor circulation in your feet. This means that wounds or infections will take more time to heal. This puts you at greater risk for developing foot ulcers.

Finally, people with diabetes are more likely to develop foot deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes. These deformities can make walking and standing difficult. They can also lead to ulcers or other injuries.

So, if you have diabetes, it’s crucial to take note of the significance of diabetic foot care in your day-to-day life.

Everyday Tips to Help Keep Your Feet Healthy 

Tip 1: Check Your Feet Daily

Diabetes can cause damage to your nerves and blood vessels, but you may not be able to feel pain in your feet. Checking your feet daily is a crucial part of keeping them healthy. This can help you notice foot problems, such as redness, swelling, sores, or blisters. 

Here’s a quick tip: 

First, wash your feet with soap and water. Next, dry them thoroughly, including between your toes. Then, inspect your feet for any cuts, bruises, blisters, or other problems. 

If you see anything that concerns you, don’t hesitate to call your doctor. Checking your feet daily is essential if you have diabetes, so don’t neglect your feet.

Tip 2: Do Not Go Barefoot

Another way to take care of your feet if you have diabetes is to avoid going barefoot. Walking barefoot can increase your risk of developing foot blisters and ulcers. 

To keep your feet healthy, it’s best to always wear something on your feet, whether inside your house, in the garden, or just coming out of the swimming pool.

It would help if you always wear socks, sandals, and shoes that fit well and support your feet to help prevent foot injuries and problems. In addition, these should protect your feet from extreme temperature changes.

Tip 3: Use Lotion Properly on Your Feet

It’s imperative to use lotion properly. Lotions can help to keep your feet moisturized. This can prevent them from cracking and other problems. 

When applying lotion, massage it into your feet thoroughly. Make sure to use light lotion between the toes, massaging in until completely absorbed. Excess lotion between the toes could lead to a higher chance of developing athlete’s foot or other fungal infections for people with sweaty feet. Also, pay special attention to any cracked or dry areas. But don’t put lotion on any open cuts or wounds.

Also, apply lotion on your feet after you shower while your skin is still damp. This will help to lock in the moisture and prevent further damage. Be sure to use a separate towel for your feet, so you don’t spread bacteria.

Tip 4: No Surgeries at Home

We understand that you may be tempted to correct problems you’ve identified on your feet. This may include doing simple things like removing calluses. However, this is extremely dangerous and can lead to serious complications. 

We recommend avoiding taking matters into your own hands. This includes surgeries at home, no matter how minor they may seem.

Home surgeries can lead to infection, which can be extremely dangerous for people with diabetes. If you have a problem with your feet that requires surgery, be sure to come see us for help.

Our podiatrists will adequately assess your feet and provide the best foot care possible.

Tip 5: Wear Protective Orthotics Everyday

If you have diabetes, one of the most important decisions you can ever make in taking care of your feet is to wear protective orthotics daily. Orthotics are devices that help support and protect your feet and ankles by aligning them to a specific position. 

Wearing protective orthotics will:

• Restore the efficient functioning of your feet.
• Prevent ulcers and other foot problems associated with diabetes.
• Distribute your body weight evenly, reducing the risk of foot pain.
• Help improve your balance.

If you are not used to wearing orthotics, start wearing them for a few hours each day and gradually increase the time you wear them.

If you are considering orthotics, schedule an appointment with us to find out what type of orthotic is right for you. Our doctors will recommend the right protective custom orthotics that fit your feet perfectly.

Tip 6: Get Help Early on From a Podiatrist

If you’re diabetic, getting help early on from our podiatrists can save you pain and agony. In addition, our podiatrists can help you keep your feet healthy and prevent problems before they start. 

Don’t wait to come see us if you have any concerns about your feet. The sooner you get help, the better your chances of preventing serious problems.

Schedule an appointment with Waco Foot & Ankle to ensure your feet are assessed and treated on time. This is also a great way to identify any hidden or developing conditions. 

If possible, we recommend contacting us at the first sign of a foot problem. But this shouldn’t end here—schedule regular foot checkups to prevent diabetic foot complications. 

Contact Us Today for Help

We are at your service. Diabetic foot care experts at Waco Foot & Ankle commit to meeting all your needs. We’ll make it easier for you so you don’t have to panic. 

Schedule an appointment today with our physicians to learn more about our foot care options.

Contact the diabetic foot care experts at Waco Foot & Ankle online, or give us a call at (254) 776-6995.