One of the top ten diseases in United States is diabetes. Over 29 million Americans suffer from diabetes, with a few more famous diabetics being novelist Anne Rice, Supreme Court Justice Sonya Sotomayor and pop culture icon, Nick Jonas.

Diabetic foot care is of critical importance, since diabetes can cause lack of blood flow in the legs and feet, resulting in numbness and loss of feeling. Due to the numbness, cuts and sores go unnoticed, which leads to infection. This means that diabetics need to spend a little extra time paying attention to their feet so they can remain healthy.  Dr. Jonathan Kletz  is a podiatrist who specializes in helping people with diabetes.

 How do I take care of my feet if I am a diabetic? 

Wash and dry your feet on a daily basis

Wash your feet gently in warm water using soap and mild water, but don’t soak them, since that will dry the skin on your feet. Use lotion on the bottom of your feet to prevent cracking and for preventing infections between your toes, using talcum powder generally works well. 

Keep your feet covered at all times

People with diabetes need to make sure not to go barefoot- it is important to always wear shoes and socks, since diabetics cannot necessarily feel if they step on something sharp. Make sure your shoes are empty before putting them on- look in them to ensure that no foreign objects are in there that could possibly cut you. 

Trim your toenails regularly

If you can comfortably see and reach your feet, keep your toenails trimmed. However, if your toenails are thick or yellowed, if you cannot reach your feet, or if you cannot feel your feet, have your podiatrist cut your toenails for you.

 Keep the blood flowing to your feet

Don’t wear socks or shoes that cut off your circulation to your feet and legs or are too tight. Do not cross your legs for extended periods of time, and keep your feet elevated when sitting down.

Check your feet every day

Make sure you examine your feet every day for infected toenails, swelling, cuts or sores. If you have difficulty seeing your feet, use a mirror or ask a family member/caregiver to help you out. 

Texas Foot Works located in Dallas, Athens and Gun Barrell City, TX, we specialize in helping people with diabetes.  To schedule an appointment, call 214-340-8885.