Diabetes And Your Feet - Suffolk Foot and Ankle

Diabetes And Your Feet

Diabetes And Your Feet

Diabetes may cause nerve damage that takes away the feeling in your feet. Diabetes may also reduce blood flow to the feet, making it harder to heal an injury or resist infection. Because of these problems, you may not notice a foreign object in your shoe. As a result, you could develop a blister or a sore. This could lead to an infection or a non-healing wound that could put you at risk for an amputation.

Here are some ways to avoid such serious foot problems:

  • Inspect your feet daily. Check for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling or nail problems.
  • Bathe feet in lukewarm, never hot, water. Keep your feet clean by washing them daily.
  • Moisturize your feet but not between your toes.
  • Cut nails carefully.
  • Wear clean, dry socks.
  • Shake out your shoes and feel the inside before wearing.
  • Never walk barefoot. Not even at home! Always wear shoes or slippers.
  • Take care of your diabetes.

Make sure to get periodic foot exams. Seeing your foot and ankle surgeon on a regular basis can help prevent the foot complications of diabetes.

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