Diabetic Foot Care

Why is foot care important for diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that causes elevated blood sugars. The sugar in your blood can damage blood vessels and nerve endings. Because the blood vessels and nerve endings in your feet are small, they may be more likely to be affected.

If your nerve endings are damaged, you may not be able to feel that you have a foot injury. And because your blood vessels may be damaged too, your foot may not get an adequate supply of blood to heal the injury. These two factors may lead to a severe foot infection that can lead to amputation.

If you’re one of the millions of people in the United States with diabetes, then it’s essential that you see an experienced podiatrist like those at New York Podiatry Group regularly to help you manage foot care.

When should I get diabetic foot care?

You should have your feet examined by the team at New York Podiatry Group at least once a year. You should also schedule an appointment when you have any foot-related issues, including corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, or fungal infections. If you develop a foot wound or sore that does not heal properly or begins to look infected, it’s important to visit New York Podiatry Group as soon as possible to ensure proper treatment and prevent further complications.

What can I expect during a diabetic foot care visit?

The team at New York Podiatry Group provides comprehensive diabetic foot care when you come in for an evaluation. During your visit, your podiatrist carefully inspects your feet, trims your toenails, and removes corns or calluses. Your podiatrist also checks for areas of high pressure or loss of blood circulation that may be a problem for you in the future.

How can I maintain proper diabetic foot care at home?

Your podiatrist at New York Podiatry Group also provides recommendations for what you can do at home to help keep your feet healthy in between your visits. Your podiatrist may recommend you:

Examine your feet daily

The best way to stay on top of your foot health is to inspect your feet daily. Finding injuries early may help prevent future complications. Keeping your toenails trimmed and maintaining good foot hygiene can also help prevent you from developing cuts and injuries.

Clean your feet

Be sure to take good care of your feet at home by cleaning daily with mild soap and warm water. You want to make sure you thoroughly wash your entire foot, especially in between your toes. You should also apply a mild moisturizer to your feet after cleaning to prevent cracks in the heels.

Wearing comfortable footwear

Choosing shoes that are comfortable will lessen your chances of developing blisters or sores, and wearing socks and/or shoes at all times will help prevent cuts and injuries. 

The team at New York Podiatry Group also recommends you avoid smoking, wear comfortable shoes, and do your best to keep your socks dry.

Foot care is an important part of effective diabetes management. To schedule your diabetic foot care evaluation, call New York Podiatry Group today or book online.