DIABETICS FEET SELF CARE GUIDE

Diabetic neuropathy causes a decrease in feeling, and as a consequence, people with diabetes don´t realize when there is an injury in their limb. Problems with your extremities can be easily solved when acting at the first sign, but waiting may lead to fatal consequences such as amputations. That is why it´s very important to check your feet every day and see your podiatrist or healthcare provider.

1. Inspect your feet daily

Make sure that there are no cuts, swelling, blisters, redness, or nail-related problems. 

2. Avoid hot water

Wash your feet daily with lukewarm water. Never too hot. Dry them carefully by blotting or patting to avoid fungal infection.

3. Moisturize the dry skin

Prevent itching or cracking skin on your feet. Skip applying cream between your toes, to avoid humidity and growth of fungi.

4. Cut your nails in a straight line

Make sure that you don´t cut them too short, as this could lead to ingrown toenails and remember to file the edges. You can always call your podiatrist.

5. Never treat corns or calluses yourself.

 Visit your podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

6. Wear clean, diabetic socks & change them daily

These socks have extra cushioning, do not have elastic tops, are higher than the ankle, and are made from fibers that wick moisture away from the skin.

7. Check into getting shoe inserts

Usually covered by Medicare or your insurance. Custom Orthotics are designed to help diabetics avoid foot pain, numbness and keep issues from getting worse. 

8. Wear socks to bed

If your feet get cold when you sleep, it´s better to wear socks than using a heating pad.

9. Keep your feet warm and dry

Ensure that you have good quality shoes that will keep your feet warm and dry on rainy and sunny days.

10. Never walk barefoot

 Always wear shoes or slippers to avoid getting any scratches or cuts.

11. Take care of your diabetes

 Keep your blood glucose in your target ranges as much as possible.

12. Do not smoke

Smoking decreases the amount of oxygen that gets to your extremities and contributes to poor circulation.

13. Exercise 30 minutes a day

Your podiatrist can prepare a list of practices that you can do while watching tv. 

14. Eat a healthy diet 

of whole foods (lean meat, whole grains, fresh or frozen fruits, and vegetables, and low-fat dairy products)