For individuals living with diabetes, foot care isn’t just about comfort—it is a critical aspect of your overall health. Diabetes can cause nerve damage (neuropathy) and restrict blood flow, meaning a minor blister or scrape can quickly turn into a serious, non-healing ulcer or infection.
Why Diabetics Need a Podiatrist
Routine podiatric care has been proven to reduce the risk of severe diabetic foot complications, including amputations, by as much as 85%. Here is how a podiatrist helps manage diabetic foot health:
- Comprehensive Foot Exams: A podiatrist will regularly check for changes in circulation, skin health, and nerve function (checking your ability to feel temperature and pressure).
- Safe Nail and Callus Care: Because of poor circulation and reduced sensation, diabetics should never trim their own corns or calluses, and cutting toenails can be risky. A podiatrist safely manages these to prevent accidental cuts and infections.
- Diabetic Footwear: We can prescribe specialized diabetic shoes and custom orthotics that eliminate pressure points and reduce friction, greatly lowering the chance of developing an ulcer.
- Wound Care: If an ulcer does form, immediate professional wound care is essential to clear away dead tissue and promote rapid healing.
Daily Tips for Diabetic Foot Care at Home:
- Inspect your feet daily for cuts, redness, or swelling. Use a mirror to see the bottoms of your feet.
- Wash your feet daily in lukewarm (not hot) water and dry thoroughly, especially between the toes.
- Moisturize the top and bottom of your feet, but avoid applying lotion between the toes.
- Never walk barefoot, even indoors.
Take a proactive approach to your diabetic health. Schedule your diabetic foot screening at Hoyal Podiatry today.
