For people with diabetes, taking proactive steps to care for your feet is not just about avoiding injuries; it’s essential for protecting your mobility and well-being. Daily routines and professional guidance can make all the difference in preventing serious foot complications.
At Great Lakes Orthopedics, we focus on providing expert diabetic foot care to patients throughout Northwest Indiana. Led by Dr. Curt Martini, DPM, our team offers advanced care tailored to your unique needs, including routine foot exams, wound care, and personalized guidance. Dr. Martini’s expertise ensures that your foot health is in the best possible hands. If you're ready to protect your mobility and prevent future complications, schedule an appointment with us today.
By learning effective foot care practices, you can safeguard your health and avoid complications that often come with diabetes.
Why Diabetic Foot Care Is Important
Diabetes can cause a range of issues in the feet due to complications like nerve damage, poor circulation, and slow healing. These factors increase the risk of infections, open sores, and more serious complications, such as foot ulcers or the need for amputation. Many times, diabetes-related foot complications develop without obvious symptoms, making early detection critical.
By implementing daily foot care routines and seeking regular foot exams from a specialist, you can reduce the chances of developing issues and maintain mobility.
Daily Hygiene and Care for Healthy Feet
To prevent diabetes-related foot complications, establish a daily foot care routine. This will help you keep your feet healthy while identifying potential problems early.
Check Your Feet Daily
Inspect your feet for cuts, blisters, swelling, or any changes in skin color. Use a mirror to check the soles of your feet or ask for help if needed. Early identification of problems is key to preventing complications.
Wash and Dry Your Feet
Gently wash your feet every day with warm water and mild soap. Avoid using hot water, as it can cause burns if your feet have reduced sensation. After washing, dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes, to prevent fungal infections.
Moisturize Your Skin
Apply a moisturizing lotion to your feet daily to prevent cracking or dry skin. However, avoid applying lotion between your toes to reduce the risk of infections in those areas.
Trim Toenails Properly
Use a clean nail file or clippers to keep your toenails trimmed straight across. This prevents ingrown toenails, which can lead to infection. Smooth any sharp edges with an emery board to avoid scratching yourself.
Remove Calluses Safely
Use a pumice stone to gently smooth rough spots or calluses, but avoid cutting them or removing them with sharp tools, as this may cause injury.
Choosing the Right Footwear
Wearing the right shoes and socks is equally important for preventing foot issues. Here’s what to keep in mind when selecting your footwear:
Wear Shoes That Fit Well
Ill-fitting shoes can cause blisters, sores, or other foot problems. Choose therapeutic shoes or models with a roomy toe box and enough cushioning to support your feet. Avoid shoes with tight elastic bands or straps that cut into your skin.
Avoid Walking Barefoot
Always wear shoes or comfortable socks, even indoors, to protect your feet from injuries that might go unnoticed due to nerve damage.
Invest in Quality Socks
Wear dry socks made of breathable materials that wick moisture away from your skin, reducing the risk of fungal infections.
Break in New Shoes Carefully
If you buy new shoes, break them in gradually to avoid friction-related injuries. Start by wearing them for short periods each day while monitoring your feet for any redness or blisters.
Recognizing Early Warning Signs
Catching early signs of foot issues can prevent complications. People with diabetes should look out for these red flags and consult a foot specialist if they occur:
- Persistent foot pain or discomfort
- Redness, swelling, or warmth in an affected foot
- Open sores or wounds that are slow to heal
- Tingling, burning, or a loss of sensation in your feet, which may signal nerve damage
- Symptoms of poor circulation, such as cold feet or shiny skin on your feet and legs
These symptoms could indicate diabetic foot complications, ranging from foot ulcers to peripheral artery disease. Don’t ignore these warning signs, as they can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
Lifestyle Choices That Support Foot Health
Managing your diabetes effectively is a crucial part of maintaining healthy feet. Here are some lifestyle tips to keep in mind:
Monitor Your Blood Sugar Levels
Consistently high blood sugar can damage small blood vessels and nerves, leading to slower healing and potential infections. Follow your diabetes management plan to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Quitting Smoking
Smoking reduces blood flow to the feet by constricting blood vessels, slowing the healing process, and increasing the risk of serious complications. Quitting smoking will improve circulation and reduce your risk of foot problems.
Stay Active
Gentle physical activity, like walking, improves circulation and reduces your risk of poor circulation and other complications. Avoid any exercises that may strain your feet.
When to See a Specialist
Routine checkups with a foot doctor or orthopedic specialist are vital to preventing and managing foot complications. You should schedule a visit if you experience any of the following issues:
- Poorly healing sores, blisters, or cuts
- Symptoms of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge
- Structural problems like bunions or hammertoes
- Sudden or persistent changes in the color or temperature of your feet
At Great Lakes Orthopedics, we offer comprehensive care to help you prevent and manage diabetes-related foot complications. Our team specializes in diabetic foot care, including routine exams, wound care, and preventive education to support your long-term health.
Expert Care for Diabetic Foot Health at Great Lakes Orthopedics
Daily foot care routines, combined with regular checkups, play a vital role in preventing diabetic foot complications. Early detection and proactive measures ensure your feet remain healthy and free from serious issues. At Great Lakes Orthopedics, we specialize in comprehensive diabetic foot care designed to protect your overall health and mobility. Dr. Martini brings years of clinical experience to our team, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care.
Schedule an appointment with our team today at one of our Northwest Indiana locations to ensure you’re giving your feet the care they deserve. Call (219) 365-0220 or book online to get started.
