The peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage) caused by diabetes gradually decreases feeling in your feet and also impairs blood circulation.
The peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage) caused by diabetes gradually decreases feeling in your feet and also impairs blood circulation. Not only do wounds take longer to heal, but also you may not even notice a cut unless you inspect your feet regularly. Proper diabetic foot care is essential for avoiding complications.
3 essential foot care tips to help decrease diabetes-related foot conditions include the following:
- Wear the right shoes—Always protect your feet with properly-fitted shoes. Specially-made shoes that provide extra support and cushioning are available for patients with diabetes.
- Daily foot inspections—Peripheral nerve damage causes numbness in your feet that makes it difficult to notice when an injury has occurred. Inspect your feet carefully every day and look for any cuts and scrapes. Treat injuries quickly to help avoid infections. An ulcerating wound can quickly worsen and even require amputation if not treated early and properly.
- Wash and dry your feet regularly—Keeping your feet clean and dry will help to avoid bacterial and fungal infections. After washing with a mild soap, dry your feet carefully, especially between the toes where infections can hide.
Properly managing your diabetes can be difficult, so it helps to have a foot care professional on your team. The foot specialists at ETL Podiatry in Briarwood and Melville, NY have unparalleled experience in treating all aspects of foot and ankle problems. Our team of doctors that includes Geoffrey C. Epstein, DPM, Matthew J. Tavroff, DPM, Stuart B. Leon, DPM and Robert J. Leon, DPM is dedicated to serving you with all of the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies. If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Melville, NY (631)-549-8637 and Briarwood, NY (718)-657-8921.
