Diabetes Related Conditions

Diabetes can bring about special foot problems.  These problems are usually related to poor circulation and neuropathy (numbness or reduced feeling), and can result in foot ulcers and infections.  The longer a person is diabetic, or the poorer their diabetic control, the greater the risk.  Prevention is the first step in treating diabetics.  For this reason regular check-ups with your primary care doctor or internist and with your podiatrist are essential.  Following all instructions about medications, diet, exercise, and foot care can greatly reduce your risk.  In general you should:

• Clean your feet daily with warm water and mild soap, avoid temperature extremes
• Pay special attention to areas between the toes
• Dry by blotting, not rubbing
• Powder your feet lightly with mild unscented powder
• Use a moisturizer for dry skin daily, but not between the toes
• Never go barefooted or in socks alone
• Always wear shoes, firm sandals or slippers
• Look at your feet daily; use a mirror to see the bottoms of your feet if necessary
• Avoid heating pads, heat lamps, hot water bottles
• Do not soak your feet unless directed to by your physician for a specific reason
• Don’t treat ingrown nails, blisters, calluses or sores on your feet at home
• Never use chemicals or medicated pads to remove corns, calluses, or warts (these acid preparations can cause skin break-down and infection)
• Trim nails straight across and round the corners with a nail file
• Don’t allow nails to get too long, but avoid trimming so short that they bleed
• If they are ingrown or thick and painful, consult your podiatrist
• Avoid tight fitting socks, hose, or those with thick seams
• Avoid high heels or shoes with pointed toes
• Avoid vinyl or plastic shoes