4 At-Home Tips for Practicing Diabetic Foot Care

One of the side effects of uncontrolled diabetes is nerve damage that can ultimately lead to the loss of your toes and feet.

At Foot and Ankle Specialists in Memorial City, The Woodlands, and Huntsville, Texas, we specialize in diabetic foot care to prevent complications like nonhealing ulcers and infection.

Our skilled physicians provide comprehensive foot checks in our office and can also teach you how to care for your feet at home. Here, we offer some guidance to support your long-term foot health and prevent diabetes-related issues that can take away your mobility.

How diabetes affects your feet

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how your body converts sugar from your diet into the energy you need to function. High blood sugar levels for an extended time can damage your peripheral nerves and blood vessels.

When your nerves are damaged, you may not be able to feel pain sensations in your feet and toes. If you get a cut and don’t notice it, the wound can worsen and become infected. Untreated wounds and diabetic ulcers can ultimately lead to the death of tissue and the need for amputation.

Damaged blood vessels also pose a problem for those with diabetes because they can cut off the blood supply to your lower extremities. Poor blood circulation prevents the healing of wounds, so diabetic ulcers may not heal properly.

Preventing these issues requires diligent, daily care at home and regular diabetic foot exams with our foot and ankle specialists.

4 diabetic foot care strategies to use at home

Caring for your feet at home consistently can dramatically reduce your risk for ulcers and other diabetes-related complications. Here are four strategies you should be using as part of your daily routine:

1. Practice daily foot checks

Daily foot checks help you identify small cuts, blisters, calluses, and bruises in the earliest stage. Inspect all areas of skin on your feet and ankles, including the skin between your toes.

You can use a mirror or ask a loved one to help if you’re not able to reach your feet. If you need additional help with foot checks at home, speak with our team about your options for in-home podiatry care.

2. Bathe and dry your feet daily

Use a mild soap and warm water to bathe your feet every day. Always check the water temperature with your fingers before submerging your feet to prevent burns.

Dry your feet thoroughly with a clean towel to reduce risk factors for infection. You should also apply a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and prevent cracking.

3. Trim your nails properly

Cutting your toenails too short can lead to an ingrown toenail that increases your risk for infection.

When you trim your nails, use a clean, sharp pair of clippers. Cut the nail straight across the top and use a file to eliminate sharp edges. It’s also a good idea to check your toenails regularly for discoloration, brittleness, and other signs of a fungal infection like athlete’s foot.

4. Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes

To keep your feet protected, wear breathable shoes that have enough room for your toes, even when you’re at home. Avoid walking barefoot, especially in public places and on hot surfaces.

If your shoes or socks become wet with sweat or rain, change them right away. Keep extra socks and shoes in your car when you’re on the go.

Call the Foot and Ankle Specialists office near you today to learn more diabetic foot care tips, or book an appointment online anytime.