Are you living with diabetes? Dr. Amberly Paradoa, Dr. Timothy Caballes, and Dr. Robby Caballes at Advanced Foot & Ankle of Indian River in Sebastian and Vero Beach, FL, offer diabetic foot care to help keep your feet healthy and protected.
Steps to Preventing Diabetic Foot Complications
If you’re living with diabetes, you know that there are many things you have to take care of – and your feet are a critical part. Unfortunately, diabetes impacts the nerves, which leaves the feet numb to various sensations. This can lead to cuts, ulcers, and infections without you knowing, and potentially result in amputation. However, with proper diabetic foot care, you can prevent these issues. Dr. Paradoa, Dr. Timothy, and Dr. Robby at Advanced Foot & Ankle of Indian River in Sebastian and Vero Beach, FL, share important tips below to ensure your feet stay healthy.
Always Wear Shoes
Unless you are in bed or sitting, you should always have shoes on. Otherwise, you can easily step on something and injure your feet. Additionally, choose closed-toe shoes to reduce the likelihood of stubbing your toe.
Cleanliness and Moisture Should Be a Priority
Bacteria and germs can get into any cracks in the skin, so it’s important that you wash and moisturize your feet every day. Use warm water and wash thoroughly. Add the moisturizer everywhere except between the toes.
Keep an Eye on Your Feet
While you are cleaning and moisturizing, take a good look at your feet. Use a mirror if needed. Make sure that there are no cuts or openings. If there are, dress them immediately.
Help the Blood Flow
Diabetes also affects blood flow, which can lead to additional issues in the feet. Exercising regularly helps keep the blood flowing, but be sure you choose exercises that are gentle on your feet, such as walking. Additionally, when you’re resting, prop your feet up and wiggle your toes.
Keep the Nails Trimmed
Your toenails should be maintained properly to prevent fungal infections, ingrown toenails, and more. Keep them trimmed but not too short. There should be a slight amount of white at the top. Also, trim the straight across, not rounded.
Visit Your Podiatrist
Regular visits to your podiatrist can determine if there is any nerve damage or open sores. They can also help trim your toenails if you cannot reach them and provide any medication or lifestyle recommendations to improve your foot health.
Keep your feet healthy by visiting Dr. Paradoa, Dr. Timothy, and Dr. Robby at Advanced Foot & Ankle of Indian River in Sebastian and Vero Beach, FL, for personalized diabetic foot care. Call (772) 299-7009 to schedule an appointment today.