When not well controlled, diabetes can damage multiple parts of the body, including the feet. Proper foot care helps prevent complications such as infections and conditions like athlete's foot. Here are a few of the diabetic foot care tips a foot and ankle institute might recommend for better health:

Professional Care

Any foot problems you experience require expert advice and care from a recognized foot and ankle institute. Attempting to treat calluses, corns, or ingrown toenails at home can increase your risk of infection. It's best to consult a podiatrist for even seemingly small foot issues, as complications will escalate quickly. Podiatrists understand how to use medicated pads or tools to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissue when treating your feet. Professionals may offer you tips on trimming your toenails without rounding the edges, which can lead to ingrown nails.

Foot Hygiene

Diabetes usually impacts how your immune system responds to infections. Good foot hygiene helps reduce the risk of infection by eliminating bacteria and fungi that build up during the day. Wash your feet thoroughly every day using lukewarm water and mild soap. Hot water can scald your skin and increase the risk of infection. Test water temperature with your elbow or a thermometer to avoid burns, especially if you have reduced sensation in your feet.

Pay close attention to the spaces between your toes. Dampness in these areas invites fungal infections. One way to remove moisture is to use a clean cloth or towel to dry between the toes. A thin layer of moisturizer applied to the tops and bottoms of your feet helps retain moisture after a shower. After washing, wear clean, dry socks made from breathable natural fibers like cotton or wool to help keep your feet dry and reduce the risk of an infection.

Daily Inspections

Nerve damage from diabetes, known as neuropathy, may affect how you feel pain, heat, and cold. Daily inspections enable you to find cuts, scratches, blisters, redness, swelling, or calluses on your feet. Keep an eye out for changes in skin color or temperature. Cold feet may signal circulation problems, while warm and red spots on your feet indicate an infection.

Check for tenderness, as this may indicate pressure points or early signs of infection. Discoloration or nail thickening may indicate a fungal infection or damage that requires attention. If you're unable to inspect your feet thoroughly, ask a family member or caregiver for help.

Blood Sugar Control

Neuropathy and poor blood circulation caused by diabetes may affect your feet. Controlling your blood sugar through a diet plan reduces the impact of these conditions on your feet. A nutritionist or physician may assist you in designing and following a low-sugar diet. They can also prescribe medication if you need pharmaceutical help with maintaining suitable blood sugar levels.

Physical exercise helps burn off excess blood sugar. Even light to moderate daily activity — such as walking — can help manage blood sugar levels. Consult your healthcare provider to find an exercise plan that works for your health and mobility. Remember to wear comfortable shoes while exercising. Shoes with a wide toe box prevent your feet from rubbing against the shoe and causing blisters and calluses. Footwear with breathable fabric helps circulate air to your feet to keep them dry.

Medical Examinations

Visit your doctor or podiatrist for regular foot check-ups, not just when you experience pain. During these visits, the professional will perform a comprehensive examination. They test sensation in your feet using simple tools and check your circulation by assessing pulse strength. They also assess your feet's skin and nails for early signs of trouble and evaluate your footwear for proper fit and support.

Discuss any concerns or changes you've noticed since your last visit. These regular check-ups catch potential problems long before you might notice them yourself. Your healthcare provider can offer personalized advice, medical therapy, and other solutions tailored to your specific foot condition.

Visit a Foot and Ankle Institute

A foot and ankle institute offers specialized care for diabetes-related foot issues, using targeted therapies beyond what general practitioners typically provide. Many podiatrists understand the impact of diabetes on foot health and can help you effectively treat or manage podiatric conditions. Contact a podiatric clinic today and schedule an appointment for comprehensive treatment.