Know how to properly care for diabetic feet to prevent complications.
When you have diabetes it’s even more important that you are giving your feet the care they need to prevent serious health complications. From the office of our Evansville, IN, podiatrists Dr. Charlotte Reisinger and Dr. Dusky Farmer, here are some guidelines to follow for diabetic care:
Control Your Blood Sugar
When blood sugar levels are elevated this is when problems occur. Symptoms only occur as a result of untreated conditions. If your diabetes isn’t being controlled through lifestyle changes and medication then you are likely to deal with health problems down the road. This is why you should have a doctor that you work with to manage your condition with medication. Keep your blood sugar levels in check and you’ll greatly reduce your risk for diabetes-related foot problems.
Perform Daily Self Exams
In order to be able to pinpoint problems, you have to know your feet and what you’re looking for. Any redness, swelling, pain, calluses, ingrown toenails or other issues require a checkup from our Evansville, IN, foot doctor. Early detection of problems is key to preventing complications. Use a hand mirror or ask a family member for help if you have trouble performing these exams on yourself.
Keep Feet Clean
It’s important that you wash your feet every day with soap and warm water. Remember that once you get out of the shower to immediately and thoroughly dry off your feet (especially between your toes). Damp feet create a breeding ground for fungal infections. When you trim your nails you’ll also want to trim them straight across and not at an angle.
Always Wear Shoes and Socks
You’re in the comfort of your own home, so it’s time to take off those socks and shoes, right? Not so fast. Since many people with diabetes are prone to ulcers and other issues it’s important that you wear shoes and socks everyday (both indoors and outdoors) to prevent trauma, injury and infection. Wearing compression stockings can also improve blood flow to the feet and ankles.
Reisinger Farmer Podiatry in Evansville, IN, wants to make sure that everyone gets the proper and individualized care they need, especially when dealing with diabetic feet. Our team knows what you need to keep your feet healthy. Call our office today at (812) 421-8555 to schedule a consultation.