Foot problems are very common in people with diabetes and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. If you are a diabetic, daily foot care is extremely important for a couple of reasons. Firstly, daily foot care ensures you are doing all that you can to protect your feet from injury. Secondly, by having a daily foot care routine, you can be sure to catch any injuries right away. Prevention is definitely the best medicine for diabetic feet.

Make things easier by having a foot care kit assembled with the following items: lotion, nail file, nail clippers and a non-breakable mirror. Keep this foot care kit in a convenient location so that you can easily access it right after you bathe or shower. Making it conveniently accessible will ensure you will more likely stick to your foot care routine. Make sure you follow this routine every day

Wash your feet with mild soap and dry your feet carefully especially between the toes.

Thoroughly inspect your feet for any red spots, cuts, bruising, ingrown toenails or blisters.

Apply lotion to your feet but not in between the toes because the extra moisture promotes infection.

If you do find  any cuts or scratches clean them with mild soap and cover with a dry dressing for sensitive skin.

Wear clean socks to bed.

Some other things you can do are:

Wear shoes and clean socks at all times to protect your feet

wear white socks so any injuries can be visually seen right away

keep nails trimmed straight across and file edges. Do not cut nails too short

When sitting put your feet up

wear well fitting supportive shoes that do not rub or pinch

increase circulation by wiggling toes and rotating ankles a few times a day

exercise regularly to improve circulation

Try to avoid:

wearing anything tight around your legs

crossing your legs

smoking

using hot water bottles or blankets that may burn your feet without you feeling it

If you are diabetic and have any concerns regarding your feet, please contact Dr Mann for an appointment.