How Can I Prevent Diabetic Foot Problems?

Do you inspect your feet every day (check for blisters, cuts, redness, ingrown nails, etc.)?

Do you wash your feet daily with lukewarm water and soap, and then carefully dry them with a soft towel, taking care to dry between your toes as well?

Do you use moisturizing foot cream to prevent dry skin from cracking?

Do you avoid applying moisturizer between your toes?

Do you cut your nails with caution, always straight across?

Do you avoid trimming your corns or calluses?

Do you always wear clean, dry socks, and change them every day?

Do you shake off your shoes and inspect them inside before putting them on?

Do you avoid walking barefoot?

Do you keep your blood sugar under control?

If you are a smoker, have you stopped smoking?

Do you visit your podiatrist regularly for a foot examination?

Based on your answers, there are several other ways that can help you prevent diabetic foot problems. Do your best to keep your blood sugar under control. It is important to check your feet daily for cuts, blisters, ingrown toenails and call your doctor if you notice problems that could lead to infection. Keep your feet clean and dry. You can apply moisturizer to prevent dry skin from cracking, but avoid the area between your toes because too much moisture promotes fungal infections. You should not walk barefoot because you can step on something and cut yourself. Be sure to shake off your shoes before putting them on.

Based on your answers, you know a lot about how to prevent diabetic foot problems. Proper foot care requires that you use only lukewarm water to wash your feet because you can burn the skin of your feet with hot water without noticing it. Always cut your nails straight across to avoid ingrown nails, and never trim your corns or calluses. Smoking contributes to complications in people with diabetes, restricts blood flow in the feet, making it difficult for wounds to heal. If you are a smoker, it would be good to quit smoking. You should visit your podiatrist at least once a year for a foot examination.