The Basics of Diabetic Footcare

Foot Care and Diabetes

Posted on: ThirdAge

If you’re one of the over 25 million Americans who suffers with diabetes, even a small problem with your feet could mean big health problems. Diabetes can cause nerve damage that takes away the feeling in your feet. The disease can also reduce blood flow to the feet, making it harder to heal a foot injury or resist an infection. A simple pebble in your shoe that leads to a blister or sore could be the first step to an infection or a wound that won’t heal. In the worst case scenario, the last step could mean amputation.But there are guidelines that can help you avoid serious complications. Here’s what to do:

Check Your Feet Each Morning:  Look carefully for any cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or nail problems. You can use a handheld magnifying mirror to look at your soles. If anything looks unusual anywhere on your foot, make an appointment to see your doctor before your day begins in earnest.

Soak Your Feet In Lukewarm Water:  Don’t make it hot! But be sure to keep your feet especially clean, washing them at least once daily without scrubbing. It’s a good idea to use a soft washcloth or sponge. Pat or blot your feet softly. Don’t forget to dry gently between your toes.

Keep Your Feet From Becoming Too Dry:   Moisturize the top and soles of your feet daily. This will help to keep feet from becoming dry, which could lead to cracked skin. But avoid putting any cream between your toes. That could lead to a fungal infection.

Pay Attention When Cutting Nails:   Cut them straight across and file the edges. Don’t cut nails too short, as this could lead to ingrown toe nails. It might be worth the investment to visit a podiatrist for professional nail cutting. Avoid salons if they’re over-zealous.

Wear Clean, Dry Stockings Or Socks:   Avoid the wrong type of socks. Tight elastic bands can reduce circulation. Also, nix thick or bulky sports socks because they can irritate your skin.

Keep Your Feet Warm In Bed:   If your feet are cold at night, don’t be tempted to use a heating pad. Instead wear cotton socks without tight elastic bands.

Become A Shoe Detective:   Always inspect your shoes before putting them on; shake them out and feel around on the inside. You don’t want anything hiding inside that might irritate your feet.

Stay Warm And Dry: Don’t let your feet get wet in snow or rain. Wear warm socks and shoes in winter.

Don’t Go Barefoot:  Even when you’re just walking around at home, it’s best to wear slippers or shoes. This way you’ll avoid accidents, even little ones, that could hurt your feet and your health, big time.

Please call the Foot, Ankle & Lower Leg Center office in Las Vegas anytime @702-878-2455 between Monday – Friday and we would be happy to set up an appointment for you.  Please visit our website @ FallCenter.com or www.walkwithdiabetes.com.   The Foot, Ankle & Lower Leg Center has Diagnostic imaging:  Digital X-Rays, Ultrasound or Advanced Imaging will be used to aid in the diagnosis.

Dr. Anthony Ricciardi at the Foot, Ankle & Lower Leg Center has completed training in endoscopic/minimally invasive surgery for chronic heel pain and nerve pain, foot and ankle joint replacement for restoring pain free motion, arthroscopic surgery, bunion surgery, fracture repair, flat foot correction, external fixation for complex deformities and extensive experience in peripheral nerve surgery including diabetic peripheral neuropathy and reconstructive surgery of previously failed foot surgical procedures.  In addition to his surgical training Dr. Ricciardi focuses on sports medicine of the foot and ankle through regenerative techniques using the patient’s own blood/platelets for healing chronic foot and ankle problems (pain) as a result of repetitive sport injuries.  This cutting edge technology enables patients to continue training with little or no down time.  Dr. Ricciardi continues to be active in teaching and training other podiatric surgeons on innovative surgical techniques in foot surgery.  Dr. Ricciardi is Board Certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery, a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and Fellow of the Association of Extremity Nerve Surgeons.  Dr. Ricciardi’s vision is to bring each patient the most current state of the Art Technology and personalized treatment options to meet their Foot and Ankle needs (from conservative care to surgical options).  Dr. Ricciardi believes in quality service and puts his patients first!