Diabetes can the loss of sensation in the feet. This can result to foot injuries caused by cuts or bruises due to the loss of feedback and sensation. Diabetes can reduce the blood flow to your feet. This is because of the high levels of blood sugar. Without normal blood flow to your feet, injuries heal slower due to the loss of nutrients.

Proper foot care is essential, especially for people suffering from diabetes. Consult a podiatrist for more information on proper foot care for diabetics. Dr. Jonathan Kletz is a podiatrist who specializes in helping people with foot disorders.

• Inspect your feet every day.
• Check your feet for any cuts or swellings. You may have a foot problem but you can’t feel any pain in your feet.
• When you take your shoes off every night, check your feet. Use a mirror if you are having trouble inspecting your feet.
• Clean your feet every day.
• Wash your feet in lukewarm water. Avoid soaking your feet because it will get dry.
• After washing your feet, use talcum powder to keep the skin between your toes dry.
• Keep the skin smooth and soft.
• Use lotion, cream, or petroleum jelly on top and bottom of your feet.
• Avoid putting lotion in between your toes that might lead to an infection.
• Gently smooth corns and calluses.
• If you have corns and calluses, ask your foot doctor the best way to care for them.
• Rub the pumice stone gently only in one direction to avoid any tearing of the skin.
• Cutting the corns and calluses is not allowed because it can damage your skin and might lead to an infection.
• Trim your toenails regularly.
• After you wash and dry your feet, trim your toenails using a nail clipper.
• Do not cut into the corners of the toenails.
• Wear socks and shoes all the time.
• Avoid walking barefoot when inside or outside.
• Wear socks with your shoes to prevent blisters and sores.
• Choose socks that have no seams, are clean, lightly padded, and fit well.
• Before you put your shoes on, check the inside and make sure that there are no foreign objects in your shoes.
• Wear a shoe that protects your feet and fits well.
• Things to remember
• Set a time to check your feet every day.
• Always wear socks and shoes.
• Stop smoking.
• Have a regular appointment with your doctor.
• Schedule a date for taking care of your feet.
• Prevent foot problems by managing your diabetes.

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

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