Diabetic Foot Care Tips

It is very important for your FEET that you control your blood sugar when you have diabetes.  High blood sugars can cause the following problems for the feet:

 -Loss of feeling or sensation in the feet

-Delayed wound healing

-Blood flow problems  

1.You should have your feet checked by a foot doctor every few months!  Your blood flow, nerves, skin/nails, and any abnormal foot structures (bunions, hammer toes) will be checked.  You may qualify for diabetic shoes or diabetic insoles because of your diabetes (depends on insurance).

 2.It is very important that you check your feet everyday when you have diabetes.  If you see an open sore or something that looks infected (red, hot, swollen, pus present), it is important to call your medical doctor or podiatrist immediately.

 3.You may put cream on the top and bottom of your feet but no cream or lotions should be used between the toes.  

 4.Check the inside of your shoes each day to make sure no stones or other objects have gotten inside.  These can injure your feet, and you may not be able to feel them.

 5.Control your blood sugar!

Mary Ann Bender, DPM
Foot and Ankle Specialist
Advanced Physical Medicine