Preventing Diabetes Complications: Taking Care of Your Feet

When you’re diagnosed with diabetes, taking care of your feet instantly becomes a daily necessity. The days of ignoring a blister or just slapping a bandage on a minor cut are over, as a seemingly routine scrape can easily turn into an infection that may result in a much bigger problem if ignored, reveals Burlington podiatrist, Dr. Todd Hyatt of Triad Foot & Ankle Center.

The National Institute of Health (NIH) recommends inspecting your feet daily, including the top, sides, soles, heels and between the toes for:

• Dry and cracked skin
• Blisters or sores
• Bruises or cuts
• Redness, warmth, or tenderness
• Firm or hard spots

“Failing to address any foot problems can lead to the development of ulcers that can become infected and do not heal,” Dr.Hyatt explains. “For many people, this has resulted in an amputation of their lower extremities, which could have been avoided if proper treatment from a podiatrist had been sought.”

To prevent foot problems, it is advised that you seek medical treatment from a podiatrist and do not treat the problem yourself. In addition, it is advised to:

• Wash your feet regularly with warm water and mild soap.
• Dry your feet after washing them, especially between your toes.
• Use topical moisturizers. Do not moisturize between your toes.
• Do not use medical pads, shave or cut any corns or calluses. Seek professional help. Instead, use a pumice stone to gently remove corms and calluses after a bath, when the skin is still soft.
• Cut your toenails straight across, instead of curved as they are more likely to become an ingrown toenail.

Diabetes complications pertaining to the feet are just as critical as checking your insulin daily. For more information about caring you’re your diabetic feet, please visit triadfoot.com Triad Foot & Ankle Center, a leading podiatric practice in the Triad, has locations in Greensboro, Burlington, and Asheboro. To request an appointment please call (336) 375-6990 or click here to request an appointment time.

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