Caring for your feet when you are diabetic is extremely important. Proper diabetic foot care helps prevent infections that could lead to more serious health issues. The risk of infection is increased with diabetes since wounds take longer to heal. At Advanced Foot and Ankle Center in Mckinney and Prosper, TX, our skilled podiatrists can assist you with developing a daily diabetic foot care routine.

Checking for Foot Wounds

Proper diabetic foot care should include checking the feet every day for wounds or injuries. Discovering even the smallest wound right away gives you a chance to treat the injury promptly and prevent an infection from developing. When checking for foot wounds, be on the lookout for all of the following concerns:

• Cuts
• Blisters
• Bruises
• Redness
• Scratches
• Punctures
• Ingrown toenails

Apply first aid measures immediately, such as cleaning and bandaging a cut or puncture. Treating the injury helps prevent infection. If you do discover a wound during a daily check, it is also a good idea to speak with a podiatrist as soon as possible to ensure you have taken the proper steps to address the injury.

Ways to Care for Diabetic Feet

In addition to checking the feet for wounds daily, there are several other steps you can take to care for your feet and keep them healthy. Scheduling regular foot exams with one of the experienced podiatrists is a great way to care for your feet. The podiatrist can check for pressure or circulation problems and other concerns so they can be addressed right away. Other steps you can take to care for your feet include:

• Keeping the feet clean, warm, and dry
• Avoid soaking the feet in water
• Moisturizing the feet daily
• Wearing comfortable shoes
• Wearing loose socks to bed
• Wearing warm socks and shoes when the weather is cold
• Trimming toenails straight across to prevent ingrown nails

Another important aspect of caring for diabetic feet is improving circulation by moving around throughout the day, especially after sitting or standing for long periods. Stopping to stretch or take a walk are both effective methods for improving blood circulation to the feet. You should also avoid crossing the legs when sitting, which can interfere with circulation.

Proper foot care is absolutely essential when you have diabetes. Our podiatrists can help you develop a daily foot care routine, as well as examine your feet regularly for potential concerns. Our offices are open and we are treating patients in the office, as well as offering Telemedicine appointments. To schedule a foot checkup with a podiatrist, call Advanced Foot and Ankle Center in Mckinney and Prosper, TX, at (972) 542-2155.