You undoubtedly already know how harmful diabetes is for your feet if you have it. Even a tiny cut can result in severe problems. In this post, we are offering a few suggestions for diabetic foot care.
The following diabetes foot care advice offered by a blue cross blue shield podiatrist can help you maintain healthy feet and toes all year long and during the warmer months:
Routines
- Look for any redness, swelling, blisters, cuts, or soreness on a daily basis in your feet. Use a mirror or seek assistance if you are unable to see the bottom of your feet.
- Every day, wash your feet. Dry them completely, paying careful attention to the spaces in between the toes.
- Be more active and take frequent walks. Consult with your medical staff to determine the right amount of exercise.
- Unless you can clearly see and reach your toes, have a professional trim it. If you can see and reach your toenails, clip them straight across as necessary without going too far. To smooth the edges you can use an emery board or any nail file.
- Always apply a small layer of lotion to the feet, avoiding the space in between the toes.
Footwear
- Even on the beach, never remain barefoot.
- Put on a pair of well-fitting, cozy shoes to keep your feet safe.
- Inquire about the coverage for diabetic shoes with your doctor. Fewer issues will occur if your shoes fit properly.
- Before putting on your shoes, check the interior. Make sure there are no things inside and that the liner is smooth.
Prevention
- Avoid exposing your feet to severe temperatures. Keep them from extreme heat and cold. Never submerge your feet in hot water. Just as you would before bathing a baby, always test the water before putting your feet in it. Avoid using electric blankets, hot water bottles, or heating pads. Without being aware of it, you can burn your feet.
- Do not cross your legs. Wiggle your toes and move your feet while seated. If you frequently experience ankle and foot swelling, elevate your feet when sitting.
- Avoid smoking since it raises your risk of developing long-term issues.
- If you acquire corns, calluses, ingrown nails, or any other concerning foot care-related problems, seek the advice of a podiatrist blue cross blue shield or foot care specialist.
- The most crucial thing is to manage your diabetes. Keep your A1c within acceptable ranges and your blood glucose levels within the desired range by cooperating with your healthcare team.
- Make it a daily habit to inspect your feet. You must set aside a brief period of time each day to thoroughly examine your feet.
Foot care and diabetes
Diabetes can harm the feet’s nerves. The disorder can cause the feet to lose feeling, which increases the risk of damage. Blood flow can be impacted by diabetic neuropathy, which can contribute to slow wound healing, infection, and, in severe cases, amputation.
A person can make sure that their foot health is properly managed by arranging routine checks by a podiatrist BCBS and inspecting their feet each day.